The subcommittee decided early on not to try to approach this task as a scientific, statistical analysis. The areas of non-profits, businesses, health care, schools, libraries, and government were examined. The focus groups were held to refine the information coming out of the phone interviews and to gather further information. The snapshot that emerged is of a continuum of skill levels and of use. At one end is a significant group of Maine citizens who have not extended their use of telecommunications beyond the telephone.
Most people are somewhere in the middle.
Phones, personal computers, faxes, and modems are the only prevalent pieces of equipment to be found in all categories of end-users. Among those with personal computers and modems, Internet use is becoming widespread. All groups are participating in electronic communications between members of the group. Across all groups, the message was clear that use of telecommunications has increased dramatically over the past five years, and that this trend will continue over the next five. The hope appeared to be that as general awareness and acceptance of technology takes hold, use will increase accordingly.