Connectivity in island communities: Case of study San Cristóbal, Galápagos

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to identify the connectivity resources available to businesses located on San Cristóbal Island, part of the Galápagos Province in Ecuador. The study aimed to determine the primary gaps and needs related to internet access, as well as the role of connectivity in supporting business operations. A questionnaire-based research methodology was employed, encompassing the stages of instrument design, validation, sampling and participant selection, administration, data analysis, and interpretation and presentation of findings. Among the key results, 46.43% of surveyed businesses reported interacting with customers via social media platforms, while only 42.86% expressed satisfaction with the speed of their internet service. These findings highlight persistent connectivity challenges, underscoring the critical importance of digital tools and direct customer engagement for local enterprises. Based on these insights, the study concludes that there is an urgent need for infrastructure capable of delivering reliable, high-speed internet access. This requirement poses a significant challenge given the island’s geographic isolation. Nevertheless, the availability of satellite technologies—despite their high costs of implementation and service—emerges as both a potential opportunity and a strategic challenge for public and private stakeholders.