Continual advances in technology mean that we now live in an increasingly knowledge-based society, with more of our interaction taking place in the digital world. Digital inclusion is about ensuring that nobody gets left behind and that Scotland's people are still able to exercise their right to engage with the community around them, access learning and services, and play a full role in society.
In short, it is about social inclusion in the information age. That means making sure everyone has equal access to - and the skills to use - information and communication technologies such as computers and the internet, whether they want to renew a car's road tax online, access learning courses, or simply keep in touch by email with friends and family who are far away. As well as such social benefits, there are sizeable economic gains which stem from digital inclusion in terms of increased employability and more cost-effective public services.
The Scottish Government is working with partners to drive progress on the issue and is a member of the British - Irish Council Workstream on Digital Inclusion, which is undertaking a series of meetings over 2010. This will help to promote a shared agenda on the issue as the Scottish Government looks to strengthen its approach and build on the 2007 strategy.
2007 Strategy: Digital Inclusion - In Partnership
In 2007 the previous administration, known as the Scottish Executive, published the strategy Digital Inclusion In Partnership. This followed a consultation exercise on the previous 2001 Digital Inclusion Strategy: Connecting Scotland's People.