According to the Global Information Technology Report 2013 Finland leads the way with regard to embracing information technology. The report also adds that digitilisation as a strong measurable effect on economic growth and job creation could help lift millions of people out of poverty.
“Digitilisation has boosted world economic output by US$ 193 billion over the past two years and created 6-million jobs during that period,” the report states.
It also stresses that access to ICT’s is not enough to close the digital gap but better environments for entrepreneurship and innovation should also be created. Government needs to provide adequate support to ensure that job creation and economic upliftment through digitilisation. ICT’s should be provided at school level and students should be trained at using and understanding these technologies.
The advantages of having the ability to use ICT stretch into every sector of the economy. healthcare facilities can greatly be improved should the healthcare system be digitilised. This can ensure faster service delivery through data management, the elimination of data inaccuracies, easy access to patient information, optimal supply and delivery of medication and medical supplies and better integration of all departments in the healthcare environment.
Further, digitilisation can also create millions of jobs through its application in the logistics industry. Better, infrastructure, such as roads, airports, bus systems and trains will ensure that service delivery in South Africa will be optimised. Through the implementation of logistics software, such as warehouse software and transport software these systems will also be integrated, streamlined and optimised.
Owing to economic development the retail sector will grow which will heighten the need for warehouse software that can streamline the supply and delivery of stock, ensure accurate data management and integrate logistics processes across supply chains.
Transport software can also play a significant role in ensuring the effective roll-out of bus and train systems by managing payment systems, maintenance, security, traveler information etc.
Lastly, the Global Information Technology Report 2013 also highlights the importance of e-government in ensuring efficient service delivery by encouraging two-way communication between government and the public.