Research Papers

BQT has supported a range of research studies that examine broadband availability, pricing, and equity at scale. These works demonstrate how address-level data can uncover patterns that are not visible in traditional datasets.

Research Studies

1. Robust and Extensible Measurement of Broadband Plans

This work introduces the BQT system and its core design abstractions. By modeling ISP interactions as adaptive state spaces, BQT enables rapid onboarding of new ISPs, minimizes maintenance under interface changes, and lowers the barrier to use for non-technical stakeholders such as policymakers.

2. Evaluating the Efficacy of the CAF Program

This study uses BQT to evaluate the outcomes of the FCC’s multi-billion dollar Connect America Fund (CAF) program. By comparing promised to observed broadband performance at the address level, it assesses whether public investments translated into meaningful improvements for consumers.

3. Analyzing Disparities in Broadband Plans

Using BQT, we collected broadband plan data for over one million addresses across thirty cities. This study uncovers disparities in pricing, availability, and competition, and provides empirical evidence of digital inequities and monopolistic market behavior.

Why this work matters

These research efforts highlight the value of independent, granular data in understanding broadband markets. Collectively, they:

  • Reveal disparities that are not captured in provider-reported datasets
  • Enable rigorous evaluation of public investment programs
  • Provide empirical foundations for policy and regulatory interventions
  • Advance methods for scalable, longitudinal broadband measurement

By bridging system design and empirical analysis, BQT supports both academic research and real-world policy impact.

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