MFG takes part in European ICT Observatories collaboration

Is it really possible to exchange experience on ICT investments among very diverse European regions? The ONE project believes so and after the first conference it was clear that the project will improve the regional planning capability on ICT investments, transfer good practices and may lay the foundation for a federated network of Regional ICT Observatories

Regions such as Rhône Alpes in France, Lodz in Poland or Liguria in Italy differ greatly, but the best methods for observing where ICT funding can be directed are the same. This was the key message of the discussion held between representatives of various European regions at the international conference of the ONE project (Observatory Network to Enhance ICT Structural Funds Absorption) held in Turin, Italy, at the end of May.

Luigi Reggi, representing the Italian Ministry of Economic Development talked about the ongoing negotiations on EU Cohesion Policy for years 2014 - 2020 under Danish EU Presidency. In Mr Reggi presentation, it was showed the importance of ICT observatories to help direct the funding to where it is most needed and best used. Mr. Reggi underlined that "in the more developed and transitional regions, 60% of the funding will be concentrated in Research and Innovation, Information Society and the Competitiveness of SMEs".

The ONE project consortium believes that having an ICT Observatory can be a useful policy intelligence tool that supports key stakeholders to evaluate activities on information and communication technology (ICT). An Observatory collects documents, monitors and studies the development of ICT through different socioeconomic indicators as well and it may also help to improve understanding the impact of implemented policies. "ICT development is one of the driving forces behind the creative industries. Much of today's business, collaboration and research happen virtually and with assistance of the web and information technology", says Timo Mustonen from MFG.

By taking an active role within the ONE project, MFG aims to observe what key indicators of technology adoption are best suited for supporting the creative industries in Baden-Württemberg. For example, the mobile application development industry in Baden-Württemberg can benefit from knowing the number of mobile devices in the region and how they are used, to introduce new products. Therefore, this learning process of tested methods and best indicators from others, will help to improve MFG's work in Baden-Württemberg and directly benefits the regional partners.

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