Digital Vision for Wales Unveiled

Digital Vision for Wales Unveiled

New research suggests Wales is developing a thriving digital economy

Atos, an international leader in digital services, has unveiled a new ‘Digital Vision for Wales’ opinion paper which highlights the range of opportunities available through digital transformation that will, with the help of the Welsh Government, drive competitive advantage in a global economy and improve the lives of citizens by building a better connected, more inclusive society.

Covering topical themes such as innovation, speed of digital change, integrated services, big data and cyber security, this Digital Vision for Wales features contributions from influential figures from Wales’ public and private sectors and Atos on the need to improve public services, deliver greater efficiency and enhance citizen experiences.

Outside of London, Wales has the fastest growing digital economy in Britain, with the number of digital businesses up by almost 10% in 2015. The IT sector in Wales employs around 24,000 people and is predicted to contribute around £1.5 billion to the economy over the next five years. Expectations of digital and economic acceleration for the nation are further heightened with plans to develop an ‘Internet Coast’ along the Swansea Bay.

In addition, independent research commissioned by Atos found that it is not only Welsh businesses that are realising the benefits of a more focused approach to digital services but that Welsh citizens are also embracing change. The report found that 20% of respondents in the country actively seek out new digital services and applications, just behind London, the South East and the Midlands.

Commenting on the paper, Mark Donovan, Client Executive Wales at Atos said: “From being able to access everyday services online, supporting travellers at every stage of their journey to digital healthcare and education, the possibilities for digital transformation are exciting.

“Our research shows that the appetite is there – especially among Wales’ discerning, and demanding service users.

“The digital revolution has the power to change lives and strengthen our society, but won’t be fully effective if it is constrained by ‘old-world’ technologies, approaches and ideas.”

David Jones, Public Sector Digital Consultant: “This is a job for both the executive and elected leaders across local Government – digital might feel uncomfortable, but they need to be brave and look up from the day-to-day in order to drive change.

“The digital agenda has moved on from being merely important, it’s now critical; not just for delivering better services at lower cost, digital can also create safer services. The failure to shift to digital implies that Councils are out-of-touch with their citizens.”

The Digital Vision for Wales also considers game-changing approaches for Government on areas such as transport networks, connected care, future delivery of education and creating a digital ecosystem for citizens.