Vision for Scotland's digital future

27th February 2013

A nationwide debate will get underway today to ensure Scotland becomes a world class digital nation by 2020.

‘Scotland’s Digital Dialogue’ will see a series of workshops, demonstrations, conferences and debates take place from now until the end of May, led by the Scottish Government in partnership with prominent digital experts, universities and business leaders.

The Scottish Government is inviting businesses, organisations and representative bodies across all sectors to engage in the digital dialogue via a new online website.

A World Class 2020 Research Report published today has helped to shape the Scottish Government’s vision for how Scotland will use digital technology in the future and how it can make the most of a world class digital infrastructure by 2020.
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:

“Scotland has world class strengths in areas like renewables and life sciences. I want our digital industry to be a similar driving force for our economy.

“That is the reason why we are embarking on ‘Scotland’s Digital Dialogue’ – to see exactly how we can do just that.

“We are committed to investing in digital technologies and infrastructure here in Scotland,
and we are eager to learn from the successes of other countries who are delivering world class digital infrastructure. Not only will this help to boost jobs, it will also transform our businesses, raising productivity and opening up new markets to attract inward investment.

“It will also change the way that we live – from the way we do business to the way we manage our homes to the way we access health care.

“But it is paramount that nobody is left behind as we embark on this journey. We want all individuals and communities to play a role in helping us to shape our digital offerings, to ensure that everyone reaps the benefits that these technologies can offer us.

“We want to hear exactly what digital technology and investment means to people in Scotland and how it can continue to play a central role in this country’s future. Together we can work to ensure that vision becomes reality.”