Written by: Michael Ofstedahl, TechConnect Edmonton
As technology reshapes how we live, independent telecom providers are stepping up with flexible, affordable, and innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of condo communities.
The only thing that remains consistent in the technological world is change. As the Canadian telecom landscape expands and residents demand more from their living spaces, condo boards and property managers are being compelled to reassess how they deliver essential services. From reliable Internet and TV to building-wide security systems and automation, expectations are rising fast. Fortunately, Local Alberta-based telecommunications companies are helping to meet these demands by offering smarter, more cost-effective solutions tailored specifically for condominiums and multi-dwelling residences.
More Premium Competition
For decades, the telecom market in Canada has been dominated by the “Big Three”: Bell, Rogers, and TELUS. While they laid out much of the foundational infrastructure, these providers have also been known for high prices, long wait times, and inflexible service models. However, thanks to regulatory reforms and expanding network access, a new wave of premium providers is emerging to challenge the status quo. Organizations like TechConnect, along with its partners, are part of this movement, offering diverse solutions and personalized support in the CCI North Region.
The way we consume on-screen entertainment and music has undergone significant changes over the past two decades. Companies like Netflix, Amazon, Spotify, and Apple have become major players in the entertainment industry. While these companies have diverse entertainment offerings, there is still a need for a reliable internet connection to use these services. There is also a need for local Canadian content and news in a premium format that is familiar and easy to understand.
Changing Times: Streaming, Smart Living & Work from Home
In this new generation of streaming television, music, and gaming are consumed on an array of devices, such as gaming systems, smartphones, tablets, and big screens. The average Canadian household now has more than 17 devices that require a wireless signal, making reliable and fast broadband internet, or WI-FI, the main component in today’s home entertainment. Broadband not only touches the entertainment side of our daily lives but also many other devices, such as home security, building automation, smart appliances, and more.
Working from home for many organizations has also become a major cultural shift, and employees working from home require a quality connection that can keep up with the demands of workplace expectations. Keeping this in mind, developing the current infrastructure within the condo or multi-dwelling resident community is key to delivering the best services to the end users. Ensuring your building is up to date with quality wiring (Cat6, quality Coax, or fiber optics) and smart panels will help with delivering the best service throughout the residence.
While newer buildings in the last 10 years should be up to date, we would recommend that older buildings have an assessment completed to ensure the broadband signal can travel without issue within the building infrastructure.
The Underserved: Closing the Digital Gap
Rural and underserved areas are often neglected by the large telecom companies, as they often would rather continue to build out new infrastructure or rebuild in more densely populated areas. This leads to a large gap in service and availability of quality broadband solutions in these areas. Unique telecom companies can often bring premium broadband and streaming services to these areas, given that there is enough interest from the community to develop the infrastructure required.
The Cost of Security: Smarter Access Solutions
Security is another critical area where more diverse companies in telecommunications make a big difference. Traditional lock-and-key systems are increasingly obsolete in today’s residential buildings. They’re difficult to manage, easy to duplicate, and expensive to replace. Some independent telecoms can provide modern access control systems that use key fobs and mobile credentials to manage entry points across the property.
With cloud-based control panels, property managers can grant or revoke access instantly, monitor usage, and generate audit reports with just a few clicks. This reduces unauthorized access and liability risk while eliminating the constant costs of rekeying or replacing lost keys. The system is scalable for buildings of all sizes and integrates seamlessly with most video surveillance and smart intercom technologies.
What We Do Best: Independent Solutions for Condo Communities
A good telecommunications company will take the time to come onsite and provide an evaluation, create proposals, and execute the work required to update the building and enhance the overall experience for the management and the residents. What sets companies like these apart from the “Big Three” is the flexibility and expertise in delivering custom-built solutions and partnering with the proper organizations to provide the right solution for the customer’s needs.
Ultimately, independent telecoms can offer a compelling package: high-quality services at lower costs, increased security, simplified operations, and even revenue opportunities. In an era where digital infrastructure is as essential as plumbing or electricity, partnering with local, innovative providers like these allows condo communities to stay ahead of the curve.
Before signing the next contract or sticking with the status quo, condo boards and condo managers should pause to evaluate whether their community is truly getting the best value. Asking the right questions can uncover opportunities to save money, improve service, and strengthen building security.
Consider the Following Questions:
- Do we pay too much for too little service from the Big Three?
- Do we have service issues, frequent interruptions, or wireless dead spots?
- Is our building infrastructure up to date to accommodate today’s technology?
- Can we improve our security and reduce costs from traditional door locks?
- When was the last time we negotiated our Internet and TV contract?
Michael Ofstedahl is the Business Development Specialist with TechConnect Edmonton. Michael has over 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, working with Shaw Communications, as an independent contractor and now with TechConnect. Michael has worked in all aspects of the business, from customer service and sales to field operations and management. To learn more, visit www.tcorp.ca