Even the most conservative estimates are that the Internet is gaining 67,000 users per day. Some companies are even giving away personal computers in exchange for small monthly fees or long-term service agreements. That's not to mention the free Internet access being provided by some advertising-supported providers. Firms ranging from our local telephone company to our cable television provider offer options for accessing the Internet. They lure us with free e-mail, free file storage sites, free technical support and free software.
Many companies offer employees subsidized personal computers and free Internet access.
There are many Arkansas companies such as Alltel Corp. and Acxiom Corp. that are riding the wave of new technology. Accounting ledgers and company financial systems don't require paper. Internal e-mails provide company policies, procedure manuals and staff news. The old paper memo has become obsolete. We want to move state government in that direction.