The digital divide

The definition of a digital divide encompasses physical access to the network on the one hand via devices and internet connections, and disparities within populations, based on gender, age, education, isolation, on the other. Not owning a mobile does not necessarily mean being digitally excluded now there are shared, public and community access options available. And owning a device does not guarantee access to reliable electricity or internet connections, nor does it guarantee the digital literacy to use online services.

Digital inclusion is becoming better understood and initiatives are emerging which analyse the many and nuanced challenges involved, to the point that guidelines for designing inclusive digital solutions and developing digital skills are becoming available from the likes of UNESCO-Pearson’s Literacy Initiative: Improving Livelihoods in a Digital World. These guidelines aim to help today’s technology pioneers design inclusive digital solutions, with the broadest definition of ‘inclusive’. Overall we must be aware of the range of digital skills, access, availability and affordability of digital devices, connections and services amongst a population and take due care in the design of new products and services, not to leave anyone behind.