This set a series of fundamental objectives and terms of reference for Federal Government strategy. The involvement of more than 350 experts in an Information Society Working Group means that the underlying principles are having a widespread effect beyond the Federal Government and can be expected to have a sustained impact in accelerating responses to the Information Society by businesses and citizens, employers and employees and public institutions. There is however always gap between public policy and private implementation, and the innate conservatism of Austria's industrial and labour market environments is leading to a rather slow acceptance of teleworking. This may change with lower costs and increasing use of telecommunications following from liberalisation and driven by Austria's continuing role as a bridge between the European Union and Eastern Europe, where there is much readier acceptance of new methods of work and trade. Austria is one of Europe's wealthiest and most stable economies, closely tracking Germany, its largest trading partner, with whom it shares a common language.
Many multinational companies choose Austria as a firm base for their Eastern European operations.
There may however be competitive pressure on this role when some Eastern countries have joined the European Union and may therefore be considered by enterprises to offer a secure base at a lower cost. Paralleling this are Union and Employer federations. The national Report on the Information Society , published in April 1997, is providing a powerful blueprint for policy and actions. The report is very broad in scope, addressing the use of technology by Government and industry, telecommunications policy, research and education, and relevant legal and regulatory provisions. Relatively low unemployment, an economy bolstered by Austria's role in East-West trade, and the conservative effects of Austria's strong labour market institutions are all factors supporting the status quo and providing little motivation for higher investment in ICTs or introduction of new working practices.