Framework

If we are to succeed in moving Wales to the front rank of countries exploiting digital technologies, we need to be both innovative and creative in our approach to developing solutions.

We propose to address this challenge by structuring our activities around 5 fundamental objectives:

1. Inclusivity: We want Wales to be a more inclusive, sustainable and prosperous society. Making sure everyone can enjoy the benefits of technology is a key part of that.
2. Skills: Information and communication technology (ICT) skills will be part of all our children’s education, and we will use technology to improve teaching methods and learning.  Beyond schools, we will ensure that everyone in Wales can acquire the basic skills and confidence to get online and use digital technologies. We will also help train people in more specialist skills for industry.
3. Economy: We want to drive economic growth. We will support Welsh companies to network with research departments to create and commercialise new digital technologies. We will help more Welsh companies to exploit these developments to innovate, grow and access new markets, especially in the creative industries, ICT and tourism sectors.
4. Public services: We will make more public and government services digital so they are easier to access and become more efficient and convenient. Through effective use of technology, people will be able to better deliver these services, and maximise use of resources.
5. Infrastructure: To deliver all the benefits of digital technology, we aim for everyone in Wales to access Next Generation Broadband (at least 30Mbps) by 2015. We are actively working to improve mobile and wireless coverage across Wales too.

The document explores the specific challenges faced in each of the 5 objectives and sets out major targets on a number of issues.  We will publish detailed delivery plans for each objective in the near future.

Our approach

We will bring together and work with a range of partners, from businesses to community groups. We will use expert advisors on the Digital Wales Advisory Board to ensure we focus on the key priorities.

The Welsh Government is fully behind making Wales a smarter, better connected society and economy – and helping everyone enjoy the benefits as soon as possible. So we will pave the way for partnerships, and make sure the public sector does whatever it needs to do, to make things happen.