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10/05/2006
Government’s current performance measurements will not support the delivery of a successful UK knowledge economy, warned Intellect today, the high-tech trade association. Government must review and update measurement systems that feed into policy development if we are to increase UK competitiveness and move swiftly and effectively towards a knowledge economy. Intellect’s new report Navigating the New Economy promotes thinking on measuring progress and success towards a knowledge economy. The report defines a knowledge economy, looks at what needs to be measured and how these measures need to be achieved to drive the UK economy forward. To help government get to grips with this new paradigm, Intellect has developed the Intellect Index Framework to measure progress towards a knowledge economy. The framework presented in the report, helps assess the UK’s assets and its ability to exploit them. It looks at factors from creative skills and successful innovation, broadband availability and utilisation, all the way to availability and take-up of eGovernment services. Commenting, John Woodget, Intellect president and managing director of Intel Corporation UK LTD said: “Both business and government understand that a knowledge economy is critical to increasing competitiveness and sustaining quality of life in the UK. In order for the UK to lead we need measurements to give an accurate picture of where we are, so we can make the right policy decisions. Only then can the market drive a UK knowledge economy. Navigating the New Economy identifies the gaps in government’s measurement systems and opens a dialogue between government and industry to promote the right measures. After all, what gets measured gets done.” Commenting, Beatrice Rogers, senior programme manager for knowledge economy at Intellect said: “The statistical measures that inform policy are the foundations of government’s decision making process. This data is a lens through which we choose to see the world. It can clarify or distort our vision, depending on its focus. Every system has to change as a result of ongoing transformations driven by technology, globalisation and innovation. It is essential that statistics and policy decisions – the tools used to build the framework of our economy – are not left behind. These fundamental tools are, today, no longer fit for purpose.” Commenting, professor Jim Norton, senior policy advisor at the IoD said: “The IoD is pleased to be associated with the development of this forward looking report. To be successful in a global economy, UK businesses need the support of the right policy environment. IoD believes the work of the Intellect report will contribute to thought leadership and help UK public and private sectors work together to achieve this support”.
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