A Challenge for the World New information technologies are changing the way we work, learn, and communicate with each other. The rate of innovation in technologies such as the Internet, computers, software, and both wired and wireless telecommunications is astounding - and will have a dramatic impact on our economies and our societies. Businesses are using information technology to boost exports, increase productivity, forge closer relationships with suppliers, and reduce the time required to develop customized products and services. As we enter the 21st century, our economies will become increasingly knowledge-intensive. Information technology will affect citizenship, culture, and community as well as commerce.
Information technology can be a powerful tool for achieving many of our most important goals.
It can put access to a vast universe of knowledge at the fingertips of every citizen, improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities, and broaden the opportunities for participatory democracy. We have an obligation to ensure that all of our children have an opportunity to succeed in the digital economy, and that they have the ability to use the latest Information Age tools for learning, research, communication and collaboration. Learning should not end with formal education. Information technology can support life-long learning by allowing adults to acquire new skills at a time, place, and pace that is convenient for them. Citizenship in the Information Age Information technology has the potential to strengthen civil society and informed participation at all levels of government.