Finland ranked best in world for ICT deployment
Finland is the world leader in the use and application of information and communication technologies (ICT) and is well prepared for the prospect of a networked world, claims a recent benchmarking report. Some 82 countries were assessed in the 'Global information technology report', published by the World Economic Forum in association with the development programme of the World Bank (InfoDev) and the INSEAD business school. By looking at readiness to use ICT as well as the current deployment of these technologies, the report was able to map out a network readiness index (NRI). The NRI revealed that due to an inadequate diffusion of ICT, the United States dropped to second position while successful deployment of ICT to businesses, government and citizens meant that Finland slipped into the number one slot. Other European countries also fared well in the report: The UK and Denmark were ranked in seventh and eighth position, followed closely by Germany and the Netherlands in 10th and 11th position respectively. However, a lack of network readiness left France, Spain and Italy well behind in positions 19, 25, and 26 place. 'Disparities in the levels of ICT readiness and usage could translate into disparities in levels of productivity, and hence could influence a country's rate of economic growth. Understanding and leveraging ICT is critical for nations striving for continued economic progress,' explained Professor Soumitra Dutta at INSEAD business school.
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Finland