BlendNet: An Assisted Digital Distribution Platform for Underserved Populations
Pages 1 - 17
Abstract
In resource-constrained environments, the adoption of digital services faces formidable barriers. To address these challenges, we introduce BlendNet, an innovative platform designed to foster intermediated adoption of digital services in remote and rural areas. BlendNet harnesses satellite and intelligent edge technologies and creates a reliable and cost-effective channel for intermediaries to distribute digital content and services in remote areas. The key technology component of the system is the ‘Blendnet Hub’, a small satellite connected hardware device placed in the local kirana stores, facilitating seamless access to users without incurring data expenses, thereby addressing access, awareness, and affordability issues. We conducted a pilot study in Bihar, signing up 258 retailers who reached over 68,000 users in three months, demonstrating the crucial role of intermediaries in digital service adoption. This paper offers detailed insights into BlendNet’s design and the pilot study’s outcomes, emphasizing user and retailer engagement and adoption of services. It explores the platform’s potential as a scalable and financially viable solution.
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Index Terms
- BlendNet: An Assisted Digital Distribution Platform for Underserved Populations
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354 pages
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DOI:10.1145/3674829
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Published: 28 August 2024
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COMPASS '24: ACM SIGCAS/SIGCHI Conference on Computing and Sustainable Societies
July 8 - 11, 2024
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