Remote WiFi Connectivity Devices for Top 3 K-12 Schools Nationwide During COVID-19
KEY INSIGHTS
During the peak of the Covid-19 crisis, hundreds of K-12 schools and universities required remote WiFi connectivity to facilitate online learning. In response, ConnectUs was able to quickly deploy over 340,000 hotspot devices nationwide to over 450 schools. Shipping occurred within 1-2 business days of order beating direct distribution shipment time by several weeks.
- Over 450 K-12 and universities supplied with devices
- Faster shipping compared to direct distribution and competitors
- 340K devices deployed over 40 states in record time
- Devices kitted with mobile device management (MDM) options
SITUATION
National health crisis creates huge demand from schools for wireless internet access
When the Covid-19 pandemic broke out, governments reacted by implementing strict lockdowns. It wasn’t long before new organizational solutions were being developed, especially in the education sector with digital learning platforms. As social distancing requirements remained in place, widely available remote WiFi connectivity became essential.
K-12 schools and universities quickly realized that their current WiFi networks could not keep up with the demand for connectivity.
OBJECTIVE
Increase internet access coverage to enable the use of digital learning tools
From video classrooms to online school and university portals, the educational landscape changed dramatically in 2020. Students were connecting with teachers more than ever online to attend virtual classes and access homework assignments. Plus, interaction between students also moved significantly online.
School WiFi networks were strained far beyond capacity, and the need for access appeared in places where no WiFi signal existed previously. The objective was to increase internet access for students, educators, and school staff.
APPROACH
Rapidly deploy WiFi hotspot devices to meet explosive demand
For hundreds of schools and universities, installing more broadband cable to meet the surge in connectivity demand would have taken several months. Meanwhile, students needed to advance with their learning programs immediately.
The fastest and most convenient solution was to deploy WiFi hotspot devices to deliver an internet signal at any location desired. Many schools came to the same conclusion simultaneously, and they began to consult with Tier 1 Carrier representatives. Given such high demand, the reps immediately referred the schools to ConnectUs given our proven track record in rapid device delivery.
RESULTS
Over 340,000 hotspot devices deployed nationwide for remote education efforts
During the height of the Covid-19 crisis, ConnectUs was able to ship most orders within 1-2 business days over the course of 4 months. Direct distribution had an 8-12 week delivery time, and other device providers were taking 7-10 business days or longer to ship devices.
ConnectUs deployed over 340,000 hotspot devices from multiple manufacturers to over 40 states servicing over 450 individual K-12 schools and universities. ConnectUs provided devices to 3 out of 5 of the largest school districts in the country.
Additionally, multiple security options were provided including mobile device management (MDM) options for a number of schools. Since this initial deployment, dozens of schools have reached out for a second round of devices for the fall back-to-school season.
In the national Covid-19 response, ConnectUs is proud to be able to serve schools and help students stay on track with remote WiFi connectivity.
