'It is essential that everyone has access to the right technology and are capable and confident in its use at home and at work'
So says the Scottish Government in its aspirations for Scotland's digital future.
Yet much of the workforce is blocked from using the 'right technology' and by extension from acquiring the confidence and capability to use it effectively. The obstacles are technical and cultural. Many organisations technically block access to sites, albeit allowing access on request. Culturally, however, they tend not to be very well disposed towards encouraging digital participation by the workforce.
We are often asked how to unblock access. It's all about leadership: helping your organisation understand that web-based collaboration and communication is part of normal, everyday working. We need creative dialogue with those who are charged with ensuring data security. It is important to understand legitimate concerns but we would argue that the present barriers to web access in the workplace are adversely affecting the prospects for Scotland's digital future.
As a contribution to the dialogue we have published Why can't I access stuff on the web?, a summary of key points from recent authoritative reports and statements that you can use to support your business case.
