Bridging the Digital Divide: The XGain Knowledge Facilitation Tool for Rural Connectivity
August Betzler, Anargyros J. Roumeliotis, Adrián Pino, Panayiotis Klitou, Vasilis Kotsikoris, Anna Pouliou, Damianos Michailidis, Ioannis M. Neokosmidis, Theodoros Rokkas, Hatem Chouchane, Annabel Oosterwijk, Evangelos A. Kosmatos, Pau Pamplona, Pamela Bartar, Gorazd Weiss · 2024
This paper presents the development and application of the XGain Knowledge Facilitation Tool (KFT), designed to address the digital divide in rural areas by enhancing knowledge about use and deployment of digital infrastructure and supporting socio-environmental and techno-economic sustainability. The XGain project focuses on empowering rural stakeholders by providing them with a robust digital tool that facilitates informed decision-making, leveraging state-of-the-art telecommunication technologies. The KFT integrates socio-environmental and techno-economic assessments, as well as business model proposals, offering a comprehensive solution to the unique challenges faced by rural communities. The project highlights the importance of tailored digital solutions to foster resilience, competitiveness, and inclusivity in rural areas, ensuring they are not left behind in the global digital transformation.