But, overall, it is unrealistic to expect universal service to continue to mean a ubiquitous and flexible network for all users. A few, sophisticated users the lone eagles will be early adopters of new technologies, such as wireless connections. Others, such as large farmers, will continue to utilize satellite links for their specific needs. The ordinary rural citizen, employee, and businessperson, however, may be dependent on policy initiatives that will come about in some places and not in others. As in most areas of rural development, it is the places with strong visionary leaders and institutional thickness that will succeed.
Telecommunications is much like other challenges facing rural America.