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Digital Technology
Development
Economic development and the digital divide go
hand-in-hand for many reasons. Communities with
the tools and skills to compete in the digital
economy are at a distinct advantage over communities
that don't. In many ways, the situation in a given
community can build upon itself, for better or
for worse. A community with a well-educated, technology-literate
population is more likely to attract and sustain
new businesses, and these new businesses in turn
attract more well-educated, technology-literate
people into the area. Conversely, a community
that lacks reliable access to technology and the
skills to use it is less likely to attract and
sustain new businesses that could potentially
serve as a catalyst to economic prosperity. Simply
put, if communities are to remain competitive
in attracting, retaining and developing businesses
in today's economy, they must develop modern telecommunications
facilities and cultivate a well-trained workforce
to stay viable.
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Database Applications
A narrow definition of the digital
divide focuses on access to computers
and the Internet. But access alone
does not bridge the technology gap.
To realize the potential of today's
information tools, people need the
skills to operate them to better their
lives and the health of their communities.
The ability to create and share community-relevant
information is part of that equation.
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