L.A. unplugged.

When Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced his plan to blanket L.A. with wireless Internet access, he said: "We are dedicating ourselves to the idea that universal access to technology makes our entire economy stronger." So the Business Journal asks:

What is the most tangible benefit of using WiFi for L.A. businesses?

George Chung

Vice President of Production

Sivoo

It's a great opportunity for L.A. in both following and leading a trend for some very' smart cities. It's the entertainment capital of the world. We are among many players in the space that provide entertainment, news and information, and by having the city become WiFi, they can be informed and connected. It's a tremendous vision by Mayor Villaraigosa and his staff. This is a service that will have an impact on people in their daily lives. In line, in the car, while waiting to get coffee, you can be connected to WiFi.

Jennifer Houston

Vice President of Marketing

USMP 

It alleviates the needs for BlackBerry and Treos. Business professionals can access documents they need at a moment's notice. It's a great Houston thing for people that travel as much as I do. Right now I'm in the lobby of the Loews hotel in Nashville and I can't get connected. It's a modern convenience that we all take for granted and we really notice it when we don't have it.

Kathryn Sharer

Chief Executive

Windermere Properties

It's a great idea. Especially with our Realtors working with laptops and explaining the downtown area to clients, the goings on in the Disney Hall and exposing the consumer to the revitalization of the downtown area. More and more of our clients are looking at what's available. It's a phenomenal idea. It's where downtown needs to go. Downtown is all about technology, the lofts, the next generation.

Jim Brooks

President and Chief

Executive

Urban Housing Group

It's a dual benefit to existing businesses in the L.A. region and a further benefit to the economy of Los Angeles in attracting and retaining businesses. Communication and technology is at the forefront of everyone's mind in looking for ways to expand business. The creation of WiFi networks will allow businesses to communicate and create virtual offices without the need to invest in hardware. The city creates the capacity of communication and companies are able to capitalize on these benefits.

Helga Weinbach

Vice President

Ramsey-Shilling Commercial Real Estate

Obviously it allows for a great deal of mobility, especially for sales people. Anyone who needs to be on the go--doctors, reporters, salespeople--can be reached immediately. It allows quick access for everyone, especially in meetings for attorneys. Everybody wants their buildings to have WiFi, it's going to be as common as a light bulb. People expect it in buildings, in their houses. That's the way it's going.

Adam Berger

CEO 

Spark Networks

Greater WiFi access would help our Los Angeles area members stay connected to their online communities wherever they go, allowing them to connect with other like-minded singles more often and in more places around the city.