Boardwatch Magazine: The Evolution of an ISP Industry Trade Publication
Before the modern internet became a household utility, the digital landscape was shaped by Bulletin Board Systems (BBSes)—early computer systems that allowed users to connect via phone lines to share files and messages. In this pioneering era, Boardwatch Magazine emerged as a critical voice, documenting the transition from these hobbyist networks to the professional Internet Service Provider (ISP) industry.
The Origins and Growth of Boardwatch
Founded in 1987 by Jack Rickard, Boardwatch began as a publication dedicated to the BBS scene of the 1980s and 1990s. Based in Lakewood, Colorado, the monthly magazine served as a hub for the community, featuring editorials on the BBS landscape and advertisements for specialized BBS software and hardware.
As the digital age progressed, the publication evolved alongside the technology. By the late 1990s, Boardwatch had transitioned into a professional trade magazine specifically for the ISP industry. Under Rickard's leadership, the magazine provided critical insights and editorials regarding the major players driving the growth of the internet.
Expanding the Ecosystem: Events and Directories
Boardwatch was more than just a monthly periodical; it created a comprehensive ecosystem for networking and industry data. The publication launched ISPcon, a dedicated trade show for the ISP industry, and produced a yearly Directory of Internet Service Providers, which served as a vital resource for the sector.
In 1998, Jack Rickard sold a majority interest in Boardwatch and its associated products to a multimedia company based on the East Coast. This entity was subsequently acquired by Penton Media in 1999. Following this acquisition, Rickard moved on to other ventures, including EVTV, an online magazine focused on electric car conversions. Rickard passed away on August 31, 2020, at the age of 65.
Diversification into Telecom and Cloud Infrastructure
Under Penton Media, the scope of publication expanded to cover other emerging sectors of telecommunications. In 2000, the staff launched CLEC Magazine, a bi-monthly publication for Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs). These were small telecom startups that utilized FCC rulings to resell the communication infrastructure of the "Baby Bell" companies.
Similar to the original Boardwatch model, CLEC Magazine included a state-by-state listing of carriers in its March–April 2000 issue and was supported by the CLECexpo trade show. Penton Media further expanded its reach by producing ASPcon, a trade show for Application Service Providers (ASPs). ASPs are recognized as the predecessors to modern cloud computing and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) providers, such as Salesforce.com.
The Transition to Digital and Final Years
As the industry shifted toward the web, Penton Media launched ISPworld in 2001, an internet portal designed specifically for ISPs. This digital transition signaled the end of the print era for the original publication; Boardwatch Magazine ceased publication in 2002. Its remaining assets were later purchased by the online telecom publication Light Reading.
While the magazine disappeared, the community aspect persisted for several more years, with ISPcon continuing to hold events until its final gathering in November 2008.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1987 by Jack Rickard.
- Original Focus: Bulletin Board Systems (BBS).
- Evolution: Transitioned to an ISP trade magazine in the late 1990s.
- Key Products: ISPcon trade show and the yearly Directory of Internet Service Providers.
- Acquisition: Purchased by Penton Media in 1999.
- Sister Publication: CLEC Magazine (launched 2000).
- End of Print: Ceased publication in 2002.
| Entity/Event | Focus Area | Key Feature/Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Boardwatch | BBS & ISP Industry | Monthly trade magazine and ISP directory |
| ISPcon | ISP Networking | Industry trade show (ended Nov 2008) |
| CLEC Magazine | Telecom Startups | Bi-monthly magazine for exchange carriers |
| ASPcon | Application Service Providers | Precursor to modern IaaS/Cloud events |
| ISPworld | ISP Digital Portal | Launched in 2001 as a web-based resource |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original purpose of Boardwatch Magazine?
Boardwatch was founded in 1987 as a publication for the Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) community, featuring editorials and advertisements for BBS software and hardware before evolving into an ISP trade magazine.
Who founded Boardwatch and what happened to him?
The magazine was founded and edited by Jack Rickard. After selling the business, he pursued other interests, including the electric car conversion magazine EVTV. He passed away on August 31, 2020.
What were CLECs and how did they relate to Boardwatch?
Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs) were small telecom startups that resold Baby Bell infrastructure. The Boardwatch staff launched CLEC Magazine in 2000 to serve this specific market.
How did ASPcon relate to modern technology?
ASPcon was a trade show for Application Service Providers (ASPs), which were the early precursors to today's cloud computing and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) companies like Salesforce.com.
When did Boardwatch Magazine stop publishing?
The magazine ceased publication in 2002, following the launch of the ISPworld portal in 2001. Its assets were subsequently acquired by Light Reading.