Digital Quality of Life: Understanding the Personal and Social Benefits of the Information Technology Revolution

Abstract

In the new global economy information technology (IT) is the major driver of both economic growth and improved quality of life. The Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) in its 2007 report Digital Prosperity: Understanding the Economic Benefits of the Information Technology Revolution documented how IT, since the mid-1990s, has been the principal driver of increased economic growth not only in the United States but also in many other nations. However, IT is also at the core of dramatic improvements in the quality of life for individuals around the world. In our new report, we show how IT is the key enabler of many, if not most, of today's key innovations and improvements in our lives and society - from better education and health care, to a cleaner and more energy-efficient environment, to safer and more secure communities and nations.

Keywords: information technology, technology, innovation, e-government, health, education, energy, health it, transportation

JEL Classification: O00, O30, O38, R40, H50, H51, H52