Communications networks continue to emerge as the socioeconomic phenomenon of the new millennium. Increasingly diverse choices are presented to end-users in a variety of technologies and platforms. Communications carriers hope to overcome daunting competition and maximize market share. Host communities are determined to protect lifestyle values and assure balance among interest groups. Local jurisdictions are curious about prospects for revenue generation brought about by the new presence.

A high degree of ingenuity must be applied to network build out if success is to be assured in the atmosphere of community participation, exercise of jurisdictional prerogative, and congestion on the competitive playing field. Conventional methods of site development will not, in an increasing number of cases, satisfy all demands at an affordable price.

It is obvious that methods should be explored which increase the number of site location options, satisfy needs for shared or accessory use, foreshorten approval and development time frames, and contain or reduce total cost to all parties. The competitive forces and pacing of the communications marketplace require that development and adoption of these methods for system-wide application be pursued as a strategic initiative.