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It is tempting to think that
getting organisations or communities connected to the Net
will bring big benefits - but more is needed.
This diagram illustrates how
new technology without a new approach can just cause additional
problems.
What sort of future do you
want?
The diagram shows we need to
think about our approach as well as technology in moving from
now to the future, from old ways to new.
1 Old approach, old technology
- Using phones, fax, print
- Broadcasting one to many
- Closed information systems
- Hierarchical organisations
- Few people in the know
Innovation may be difficult.
Those who want to make a change are frustrated, but they may
manage to get into box 2...
2 New approach, old technology
- Moves to more networking
- Greater information disclosure
- Aspirations to collaborate,
involve
- But… same technology
...
- Too many meetings
- Information overload
- Many still out of the loop
The spirit is willing, but new
tools are need to make the new approach work. If plan properly
you may get to box 4. If you didn't get to box 2, but just
dropped some computers and connections into your existing
set up, you are in box 3.
3 New technology, old approach
- Funds for equipment, not
training
- Techies in the driving seat
- Decision-makers are stragglers
- Funds target only individuals
and existing organisations
- Many still excluded
- Technology cynicism sets
in
The trap. Either the computers
are still in their boxes - or they are up and running but
driving people crazy. Or maybe a few people are reaping the
benefits, but others are left out.
4 New technology, new approach
- Online access and training
for all
- Public services online
- Technology enables partnerships
- Many to many communication
- Training on strategic technology
use
- New personal opportunities
The ideal for those seeking
to really Make the Net Work.... but it takes time, and changes
in people as well as technology.
Making the move
The biggest Digital Divide trap
lies in moving from box 1 to 3 - because then a move to 4
will mean unscrambling systems, remotivating people. Moving
from 1 to 2 can be frustrating - but will help reveal what's
needed.
In making that move, you will
have to be VOCAL think about:
- Vision of what is
needed and why
- Ownership of that
by key interests
- Commitment to the
vision
- Action towards the vision
- Looking after your
achievements
… as well as ensuring all
parties are confident users of the technology and able to
work with each other. This
process, we believe, will be similar whether you are:
- Creating a learning access
centre, or community technology centre
- Making your organisation
more effective
- Developing a network of organisations
or interests
- Enhancing the economic, environmental
or social capital of a local community
See
also:
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