As a component in understanding the broadband marketplace and in obtaining critical insight into the future of broadband and DSL, the IEC and Hellerstein & Associates created two surveys, one specifically focused on broadband access issues and the other on DSL. Both surveys were given to all of the participants at the July 2000 DSL Communications Forum and at selected sessions of the October 2000 National Communications Forum.

Those who responded to the surveys came from incumbent telcos, CLECs, telecom suppliers, hardware providers, manufacturers, vendors, and content providers. Regulators, consultants, and academicians were also among the respondents. The majority of survey participants had more than 10 years of experience in the telecommunications field; a significant number had more than 20 years' experience.

The complete results may be found in The Evolution of Broadband: DSL and Beyond, published by the IEC and available on its Web site.