As part of its ongoing commitment to improving mobile service access, and in line with the Telecom Policy Direction 2023, (this will open in a new window)the CRTC commissioned FarrPoint to investigate a more robust and standardised mobile coverage reporting framework.
With public trust in existing coverage maps in question, and growing demand for transparency, the CRTC is taking action to develop a more standardised approach, ensuring that mobile coverage maps more accurately reflect real-world experiences and provide a sound basis for policy development, accountability, and targeted programme design.
The CRTC required expert, independent support to develop a consistent, transparent, and technically rigorous approach to mobile coverage reporting. Their current process was based on self-reported data from mobile operators, which lacked standard definitions and verification methods. This made it difficult to assess the accuracy of coverage claims and link these to the predicted end user experience.
The existing method created challenges in validating submissions, comparing providers, identifying coverage gaps, and ultimately holding providers accountable. To address these issues, the CRTC, in collaboration with (this will open in a new window)Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and building on technical input from the (this will open in a new window)Communications Research Centre (CRC), needed an objective assessment of international best practices and industry views to inform the design of new reporting standards.
We compiled our research and insights into a comprehensive report, offering detailed and tailored recommendations to support the development of a national mobile coverage reporting standard that works for Canada.
The work involved:
Our findings highlighted just how critical it is to have clear and consistent coverage reporting standards, data submission formats, and robust validation mechanisms. These elements are essential to have confidence in the coverage maps. This report provides a foundation for analysis of the end user experience, which is becoming increasingly important. Our recommendations were carefully tailored to support the CRTC and ISED in developing a national reporting standard that is thorough, scalable, and workable within the Canadian context.
FarrPoint supports governments, regulators, and industry across the globe to improve digital infrastructure and connectivity policy.
Looking to standardise mobile coverage reporting or improve telecom data collection? Get in touch to find out how our independent expertise can support your goals.
Connectivity is important. It drives business and society, bringing communities and commerce together. That's why we use our insight and experience to connect people and business.
.svg){kind=icon}