Commission communication calls for promotion of e-economy research
A Commission communication on 'The impact of the e-economy on European enterprises: economic analysis and policy implications,' has said that more research is needed to fill the gaps in enterprises' use of ICT (information and communication technologies). The document states that the further integration of ICT within enterprises is being hampered by high labour costs and the poor accessibility, functionality and openness of some ICT-based systems. 'Research activities are needed to fill these gaps,' the report says, 'by developing user-friendly, affordable and interoperable technical solutions that are crucial for supporting the development of the e-economy among enterprises.' The communication calls for research not only into technology, but into related socio-economic issues and human resources, explaining that the aim of European research includes the promotion of mobility, skills and interdisciplinary working practices. A number of measures to boost enterprises' use of ICT are called for. The document says that ambitious and multidisciplinary research activities are needed to boost flexible, knowledge-based and sustainable enterprises in the e-economy. It also says research and demonstration activities are needed to stimulate change in the organisation of enterprises within the e-economy, covering areas such as reliable B2B (business to business) and B2C (business to consumer) operational tools. The communication also calls for initiatives aimed at encouraging the take-up of technologies and applications adding a global dimension to competitiveness, such as mobile business and e-work environments, solutions to strengthen the functioning of the internal market, such as EU-wide financial and e-logistics systems, e-government and security solutions, and the use of indicators and modelling to assess the mid to long-term impact of technology and enterprise policies. The communication also highlights action in other areas which is needed to ensure enterprises draw maximum benefit from the e-economy. These include the fostering of a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, enhancing the ICT skills base, raising the ability of European enterprises to compete in a modern global economy and further improvements to the functioning of the internal market. In 2002, the Commission will intensify the debate on a long-term strategy for enterprise policy and deepen cooperation with relevant stakeholders, including Member States, industry, consumers and social partners. In this way, the Commission aims to develop and agenda for maximising the benefits of the e-economy for European enterprises.