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Get Online Week

Can Digital Unite Communities & Organisations Towards a Shared Vision? A Look at Get Online Week 2023

Let’s pretend for a second that this is not IFB Gaming. That our CEO, John Adewole, did not explore the efficacy and vitality of the gaming paradigm for project management and as a social accommodator for the insecurely attached through a longitudinal virtual ethnography. Let’s pretend that during his study, he did not capture the extent of modality switching from the gaming paradigm.

What happened during Get Online Week

IFB Gaming united charities and community organizations in Southwark for our 6th Get Online Week campaign in London. Get Online Week is championed by the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity, Good Things Foundation. The annual event sees the National Digital Inclusion Network get together to reinvigorate our pledges to eradicate digital inclusion and data poverty through collective action.

Now in its 16th year, the annual campaign has supported thousands of organisations to support millions of individuals at the risk of digital inclusion and data poverty.

2023’s Get Online Week unfolded on Kennington and Brandon Estates in the London Borough of Lambeth and Southwark, respectively. Community development initiatives frequently necessitate educational programs, and during Get Online Week, we employed a dedicated educational app called Learn My Way.

The organisations that supported GOW 2023 include The NHS, NHS Digital, Good Things Foundation, Future Dot Now, Vodafone’s Everyone.Connected, Metropolitan Police, and Virgin Media O2.

During the week;

  • We conducted focus groups with the Brandon Estates TRA committee and residents
  • We supported Seniors to master the new NHS appointment booking process via Swifqueue
  • We supported individuals through the National Databank
  • We supported individuals with basic digital skills using the EDS Framework
  • We empowered Women through Business Information Technology workshops
  • We explored new ways of doing research with NHS England in London communities
  • We conducted a Digital Skills and Needs Assessment with residents of Brandon Estate

So, can digital unite communities and organisations towards a share vision and goals? In our operational research experience, we certainly have the data and insights to say yes! Digital can sustainably unite individuals and communities from the gaming paradigm towards a shared vision and goals, however, we are yet to establish whether it can from real world context.

Unlike real world context where motive and motivation may differ significantly, the motive and motivation for presence in the gaming paradigm is playing and fun.

Ensure you are following our social media channels for more updates on the efficacy and vitality of digital to sustainably unite communities.

In the Press

– Thank You for Inspiring Minds and Empowering Futures during Get Online Week in Southwark – John Adewole PMP

– Get Online Week “Empowering Futures” – IssueWire

– Kennington estate to host computer skills workshops for local residents – Southwark News

– Success Story: Get Online Week with BREAKTHEBARRIER CIC – Community Southwark

– Get Online Week

Community Development

Food as a Catalyst for Community Development

Today, we delve into a topic that is not only close to our hearts but also integral to the very fabric of our communities – food. We’ll explore how food isn’t just about nourishment; it’s a potent tool for fostering community development.

So, let’s uncover why food holds the power to transform our neighbourhoods and make them thrive.

The Heart of Community:

Food

Food has a unique ability to bring people together. Think about the last time you shared a meal with friends, family, or neighbours. You laughed, shared stories, and felt a sense of togetherness. It’s this fundamental social aspect of food that makes it an indispensable part of community development.

1. Food Fosters Connection:

Community development is built on connections. Food gatherings, whether potlucks, community dinners, or farmers’ markets, create opportunities for people to meet, share experiences, and build relationships. These connections can lead to stronger, more resilient communities.

2. Food Preserves Culture:

Food is a key component of cultural identity. Recipes passed down through generations and traditional dishes connect us to our heritage. Celebrating cultural diversity through food not only honours our roots but also enriches our understanding of others.

3. Food Sparks Conversation:

Imagine a town square bustling with people enjoying local food. It’s a natural hub for conversation, idea-sharing, and community engagement. Food-related events can become platforms for important dialogues about local issues and initiatives.

4. Food Empowers:

Teaching community members about food, nutrition, and sustainable practices empowers them to make healthier choices. It’s a way to enhance people’s quality of life while fostering self-sufficiency and independence.

5. Food Supports Economic Growth:

Local food systems create jobs and stimulate economic growth. By supporting local agriculture and food-related businesses, we contribute to the economic well-being of our community, allowing it to flourish.

6. Food is About Resilience:

Strong local food systems enhance community resilience. When external supply chains are disrupted, a community with reliable local food sources can better weather the storm.

7. Food Promotes Environmental Sustainability:

Sustainable food practices reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. Local, eco-friendly food production contributes to the overall environmental sustainability of our community.

8. Food as a Tool for Education:

Food education, from teaching children about nutritious choices to demonstrating sustainable farming practices, equips community members with the knowledge and skills to lead healthier lives.

9. Food Alleviates Poverty:

Effective food systems can reduce poverty by providing employment opportunities and improving access to affordable, nutritious meals. A flourishing local food economy can uplift the entire community.

A Bountiful Future

In essence, food is not just nourishment; it’s a catalyst for community development. It’s the thread that weaves our communities together, fostering connection, culture, conversation, and empowerment. By embracing the power of food, we can build healthier, more resilient, and more prosperous communities.

So, let’s savour the delicious journey of using food as a tool for community development. Together, we can cultivate a future that’s not only filled with good meals but also with strong, vibrant, and connected communities.

Research

Unveiling User Perspectives through Focus Groups and Usability Testing

Welcome to our latest update! In this edition, we dive into the world of user research with a closer look at two essential methods: Focus Groups and Usability Testing. Discover how these techniques unlock valuable insights into user perspectives and help refine the user experience of tech products. Let’s explore the power of understanding user opinions and improving usability. Read on!

A focus group is a qualitative research method in which a small, diverse group of participants (usually 6-12 people) is brought together to discuss a specific topic, product, or concept in a structured, facilitated discussion. The purpose of a focus group is to gather insights, opinions, and perceptions from participants about the subject under discussion. It is often used to explore people’s attitudes, beliefs, and feelings, as well as to generate ideas and uncover issues related to a particular topic.

Usability testing, on the other hand, is a method used to evaluate the user-friendliness and effectiveness of a product, typically a software application, website, or device. Usability testing involves having participants (usually individual users) perform specific tasks using the product while their interactions and feedback are observed and recorded. The primary goal is to identify usability issues, such as difficulties in navigation, user interface design, and task completion, in order to improve the product’s overall user experience.

In some cases, a combination of both methods may offer the most comprehensive insights into tech use.

User Research Methods

Focus groups and usability testing are both valuable methods for collecting data about tech use, but they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages. Here’s a comparison of the two:

Focus Groups:

  1. Diverse Perspectives: Focus groups are excellent for gathering diverse opinions and insights. They bring together a small group of participants who can discuss their experiences, preferences, and attitudes regarding tech use.
  2. Idea Generation: They can be instrumental in generating new ideas and understanding the broader context in which technology is used. Participants can share their thoughts and brainstorm solutions.
  3. Perceptions and Feelings: Focus groups are useful for exploring participants’ perceptions, feelings, and social dynamics related to technology. This is especially valuable for understanding the emotional aspects of tech use.
  4. Cost-Effective: They are generally cost-effective compared to usability testing, as they involve fewer participants and can uncover a wide range of issues in a single session.

Usability Testing:

  1. Task-Oriented: Usability testing is task-oriented and focuses on how users interact with technology to complete specific tasks. It provides detailed insights into the user experience and identifies usability issues.
  2. Objective Data: Usability testing collects objective data, often through observations and metrics like task completion times and error rates. This data is valuable for making concrete improvements to the technology.
  3. Identification of Usability Issues: It is highly effective at identifying usability problems and bottlenecks in the user interface. This is critical for refining the user experience and optimizing tech use.
  4. Iterative Improvement: Usability testing is well-suited for iterative design and development. It provides actionable feedback that can be used to make incremental enhancements to a tech product.

Focus groups are best for gathering qualitative data on user opinions, perceptions, and social dynamics related to tech use. They are excellent for idea generation and understanding the broader context. Usability testing, on the other hand, is task-oriented and provides objective, quantitative data on how users interact with technology. It excels at identifying usability issues and supporting iterative improvements.

Both methods are valuable for different research objectives and can provide valuable information for product development and decision-making.

The choice between focus groups and usability testing depends on your research goals. If you want to understand user opinions and experiences broadly, focus groups are a good choice. If you’re focused on identifying and solving specific usability problems, usability testing is more appropriate. In some cases, a combination of both methods may offer the most comprehensive insights into tech use.

Community Development , Digital Inclusion

Embracing Gamification for Digital Inclusion and Community Resilience

What is Gamification?

Gamification is the application of game elements and principles to non-game contexts, often with the goal of increasing engagement, motivation, and participation. It involves integrating features commonly found in games, such as points, badges, leaderboards, challenges, and rewards, into various activities and systems, like education, business, marketing, and more. You can learn more about the history and academic attempts to define gamification here.

The aim is to make these activities more enjoyable and to encourage desired behaviours, such as learning, productivity, or customer loyalty, by leveraging the psychological aspects of gaming, such as competition, achievement, and a sense of accomplishment. Gamification can be a powerful tool for enhancing user engagement and motivation in a wide range of applications.

One of the profound debates around gamification is its practicality for real-world community development. In our just completed Get Online Week‘s: Inspiring Minds! Empowering Futures!, we transformed a South London community into GTA. So, yes, gamification can be used effectively in real-world contexts and for community development. Here’s how:

  1. Community Engagement: Gamification can encourage community members to actively participate in events, initiatives, and projects. It can turn tasks like volunteering, attending meetings, or contributing to community clean-up efforts into engaging and competitive activities.
  2. Education and Skill Development: In community development, there is often a need for educational programs. During Get Online Week, we used a dedicated educational App called Learn My Way. Gamification can be used to create interactive and enjoyable learning experiences, promoting skill development and knowledge sharing within the community.
  3. Culture and Behaviour Change: Gamification can be applied to change or create cultures and encourage positive behaviours within a community, such as recycling, conserving energy, trying one thing online, or adopting healthy lifestyles. It can use rewards, challenges, and competitions to motivate individuals to make a positive impact.
  4. Community Building: Games and challenges can bring people together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. For example, a community scavenger hunt can encourage residents to explore their neighbourhoods and interact with each other.
  5. Data Collection: Gamified apps or platforms can be used to collect valuable data and feedback from community members. For instance, a mobile app could encourage residents to report issues like potholes or graffiti while earning points or rewards.
  6. Advocacy and Awareness: Gamification can be utilized to raise awareness and advocate for important community issues. Interactive campaigns can educate people about local problems and motivate them to take action.
  7. Community Improvement Projects: Community projects, such as park beautification or mural painting, can incorporate gamified elements to make the work more enjoyable and to track progress and achievements.
  8. Volunteer Management: Gamification can help manage and recognize volunteers. Volunteer leaders can use gamified systems to track contributions, offer rewards, and foster a sense of accomplishment.

By integrating gamification into community development, you can make the process more engaging, inclusive, and effective. It has the potential to inspire participation, boost motivation, and ultimately lead to more successful and sustainable community initiatives.

At IFB Gaming, we firmly advocate that gamification holds great potential for community development and we are delighted to spearhead its adoption in this growing field. Community development initiatives frequently necessitate educational programs, and during Get Online Week, we successfully harnessed the power of a dedicated educational app called Learn My Way.

Through gamification, we endeavour to craft engaging and enjoyable learning experiences that foster skill development and facilitate the sharing of knowledge within the community. This approach promises to enhance the educational and interactive aspects of community development efforts, making them more impactful and enjoyable for all involved.

Artificial Intelligence

Augmented intelligence, artificial intelligence and augmented reality: Are they the same?

No, augmented intelligence, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality are not the same; they are distinct concepts and technologies. Here’s a brief overview of each:

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI):
    • AI refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning from data, recognizing patterns, making decisions, and problem-solving.
    • AI encompasses a wide range of techniques, including machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics.
    • The primary goal of AI is to create machines that can mimic or simulate human intelligence, and it is used in various applications, from virtual assistants to autonomous vehicles.
  2. Augmented Reality (AR):
    • AR is a technology that superimposes digital information, such as computer-generated images, sounds, or data, onto the real world. This digital information is presented in the context of the user’s physical environment.
    • AR enhances the user’s perception of reality by adding contextual digital elements to their view, typically through devices like smartphones or AR glasses.
    • AR is commonly used in applications like gaming, navigation, education, and industrial training.
  3. Augmented Intelligence (AI):
    • Augmented Intelligence is a concept that combines human intelligence with artificial intelligence to enhance human decision-making and problem-solving rather than replace it.
    • It leverages AI technologies to assist humans in making better decisions, providing insights, and automating routine tasks.
    • Augmented Intelligence aims to empower individuals and businesses by using AI as a tool to enhance their abilities in areas such as data analysis, healthcare diagnostics, and customer support.

While there is some overlap in the use of technology, these concepts have distinct purposes and applications. AI focuses on creating intelligent systems, AR enhances the real world with digital elements, and Augmented Intelligence uses AI to enhance human capabilities. They are often used in combination to create advanced and interactive experiences, but they are not the same thing.

Artificial Intelligence

Unravelling the Differences between Augmented Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence, and Augmented Reality

Augmented intelligence, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality are not the same; they are distinct concepts and technologies.

Here are the key differences between Augmented Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence, and Augmented Reality:

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI):
    • AI refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks may include problem-solving, learning from data, recognizing patterns, making decisions, and understanding natural language.
    • AI can be found in a wide range of applications, from virtual personal assistants like Siri and chatbots to recommendation systems in streaming services and even self-driving cars.
    • AI doesn’t necessarily require a direct interface with the real world, as it operates in the digital realm.
  2. Augmented Reality (AR):
    • AR is a technology that blends digital information (such as computer-generated images, sounds, or data) with the real world. It overlays virtual elements onto your view of the physical world through a device, like a smartphone or AR glasses.
    • AR enhances your perception of reality by adding contextually relevant digital information. This can be used in various applications, such as gaming (e.g., Pokémon Go), navigation, and educational tools.
    • AR does not necessarily involve intelligent decision-making but focuses on enhancing the user’s sensory experience.
  3. Augmented Intelligence (AI):
    • Augmented Intelligence is the concept of using AI to enhance human intelligence and decision-making rather than replacing it. It combines the strengths of both human and artificial intelligence.
    • AI technologies, such as machine learning and data analytics, are employed to assist humans in making better decisions, providing insights, and automating routine tasks.
    • Augmented Intelligence aims to empower individuals and businesses by using AI as a tool to enhance their abilities, such as in data analysis, healthcare diagnostics, and customer support.

Artificial Intelligence is a broad field that focuses on creating smart computer systems, Augmented Reality enhances the real world with digital information, and Augmented Intelligence leverages AI to enhance human intelligence and decision-making.

Each of these technologies has distinct applications and objectives, and they can complement each other in various contexts to create more advanced and interactive experiences.

Artificial Intelligence

Unlocking the Mysteries of AI: A Beginner’s Guide

Welcome back, curious enthusiasts! At IFB Gaming, we understand that diving into the world of gaming can sometimes feel like stepping into a maze of acronyms and technical jargon. One such term you’ve probably come across is “AI,” short for Artificial Intelligence. But fear not, because today, we’re here to unravel the mysteries of AI and explain it in a way that even beginners can grasp.

What is AI, Anyway?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is like having a computer or a robot that can do some things on its own, kind of like how you can think and make decisions.

Think of AI as the magical brain of your computer or console. Just like you think and make decisions, AI helps your gaming device make choices and solve problems all on its own. It’s like having a clever sidekick who’s really good at learning from information and figuring things out.

AI is made to learn from information and make choices or solve problems, and it can be really helpful in all sorts of things, like playing games, answering questions, and even driving cars! It’s like having a smart, helpful friend who’s a computer.

AI in Gaming

Now, why is AI so important in the gaming world? Well, it’s because AI is what makes non-player characters (NPCs) act smart in your games. When you’re exploring a virtual world, battling opponents, or solving puzzles, AI controls how the computer-generated characters respond.

It’s like playing against computer opponents who can think and adapt, which makes your gaming experience more exciting and challenging.

AI in Game Design

AI isn’t just about creating opponents, though. It’s also used in designing the game itself. Game developers use AI to craft engaging storylines, create realistic environments, and even personalize your gaming experience.

AI can adapt the game’s difficulty to match your skills, so you’re always on the edge of your seat without getting too frustrated.

In this Battlefield Coop Gameplay video, the players navigate their way through AI-controlled opponents to rescue an Ambassador
In this video, the players navigate their way through AI-controlled opponents to rescue an Ambassador

AI Beyond Gaming

AI isn’t limited to gaming; it’s a technology used in many aspects of our lives. It’s what powers voice assistants like Siri or Alexa, recommends movies on Netflix, and ChatGpt, and even helps self-driving cars navigate the roads.

So, understanding AI can open doors to a world of technological wonders.

Getting Started

AI has been around for some time and it is not limited to gaming only. As you embark on your digital inclusion journey, keep an eye out for AI-powered features, functions and characters.

The more you understand how AI works, the more you’ll appreciate the intricacies and potential. And who knows, you might even be inspired to create your own AI solutions in the future!

Stay tuned for more exciting updates here at IFB Gaming. We’re committed to helping beginners, academics, researchers, law and policymakers, and charities and community organizations alike explore the thrilling universe of AI. So, level up, and remember – AI can be your trusty sidekick in the digital world, making your adventures even more holistic and epic!

Read about AI on the CEO’s website
Digital Inclusion

Register for Get Online Week 2023’s Empowering Futures’

Get Online Week is back. It runs annually during Black History Month and it is currently on its 16th edition.

Why is Get Online Week important?

Nearly 1 in 5 adults lack the most basic digital skills needed for everyday life.

Over 1 in 20 households have no internet access, neither fixed line nor mobile.

2 million households struggle with affordability of internet access.

(AbilityNet)

What to expect this Get Online Week 2023

Free technology, computer and internet support for beginners.

Get support from IFB, BTB CIC and the NHS to access and understand essential digital services.

Whether you are a beginner, looking for educational resources or you are just struggling with a specific function, there will be a variety of departments based on our 6-Pillars of Digital Inclusion on the ground to support you.

Register Here

You may also like to join us soon for more free events below:

Supporting Seniors to take back control of their healthcare by mastering the new NHS appointment booking process.

One of our primary objectives this year is to support Seniors and Elderly People with the new NHS appointment booking process, especially blood tests. If you know anyone that’s can benefit from this event, kindly bring them along or share with them. The NHS User Research team will be available during GOW to support them with any issues or problems that they may be experiencing.

Register Here

Get Online Week 2023: Inspiring Minds. Empowering Futures.

A free 3-day free website development workshop at Rachel Leigh Hall. This event is free, however, registration is required. Please learn more with the link below.

The three days workshop will focus on:

  1. HTML – Hyper Text Markup Language
  2. CSS – Cascading Style Sheets
  3. Design thinking and ethics
  4. Drag ‘N’ Drop

Register Here

Digital Living: Free bicycle marking by the Metropolitan Police.

Crime is on the rise again in London. This is true about mobile phones and bicycles on Southwark’s Brandon Estate. This Get Online Week, we are teaming up with the Police to mitigate these categories by offering bicycle tracking devices to individuals.

Register Here

IFB Accessibility Services

Healthcare

Unlocking Convenient NHS Healthcare Access for Older and Elderly People

Are you or a loved one finding it challenging to book NHS appointments online? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many seniors face the same hurdle in today’s digital age. But here’s the good news: Technology can be your ally, and we’re here to help!

Currently, you may experience one of the following:

  1. Appointments have moved to Swiftqueue
  2. There seem to be backlogs
  3. There may be a latency issue, especially in SMS and bookings
  4. There are queues

We will get there. But You, or IFB, or the NHS, cannot do it alone. At IFB Gaming, we understand that navigating the digital landscape can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to essential healthcare appointments such as blood tests. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing tailored support for seniors in Southwark.

Bridging the Digital Gap

Our mission is simple, to empower seniors to take control of their healthcare by mastering the online appointment booking process. Here’s what we offer:

  1. Personalised Assistance: Our friendly team of tech-savvy volunteers is here to guide you every step of the way. We’ll patiently walk you through the process, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable using online platforms.
  2. One-on-One Training: We believe in learning at your pace. Through personalised one-on-one training sessions, we’ll teach you how to use your computer, tablet, or smartphone to access NHS services.
  3. Booking Support: Need help scheduling that important doctor’s appointment or arranging a prescription refill? We’ve got you covered. We’ll assist you in booking NHS appointments online, so you can receive the care you deserve.
  4. Tech Tips and Tricks: Discover handy tips and tricks to make using technology a breeze. From setting up email accounts to securely managing your healthcare records, we’ll ensure you’re well-equipped.
  5. Confidence Building: Our aim is not just to help you book appointments but to boost your overall digital confidence. We’ll make sure you feel comfortable navigating the online world independently.

Why Choose Us?

  • Human-Centered Care: We prioritise your needs and tailor our support to match your requirements.
  • Empowering Independence: Our goal is to empower you to take control of your healthcare journey.
  • Experienced Team: Our compassionate volunteers are well-versed in assisting seniors with digital literacy.

Join us at IFB Gaming and embark on a journey towards hassle-free healthcare access. With our support, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to book NHS appointments online, ensuring you receive timely and efficient medical care.

Don’t let technology stand in the way of your health and well-being. Contact us today to get started on your digital healthcare journey. Together, we’ll unlock a world of convenience and peace of mind for your healthcare needs.

Digital Inclusion

IFB Gaming Joins Future Dot Now Coalition

Our commitment is to elevate digital inclusion and eradicate data poverty. We recognise that this endeavour requires a collective effort beyond any single expert, organisation, government, or community. Hence, we are proud to announce that we are now an active member of the Future Dot Now coalition and will align our tangible and intangible resources and objectives with the alliance to eradicate digital inclusion and data poverty from the UK.

The pandemic has underscored the urgency of our mission, signalling that traditional methods may no longer suffice during technology adoption maturity and beyond.

Future Dot Now is a coalition of forward-thinking organisations dedicated to enhancing essential digital skills in the UK’s workforce. The coalition is spearheaded by Liz Williams MBE who is also the Founder and Chief Executive of Future Dot Now. There are currently 133 members in the coalition, including esteemed organisations such as Good Things Foundation, IBM, Microsoft, Lloyds Banking Group, DWP, Nationwide Building Society, and PwC.

We are honoured to be a part of this dynamic coalition.

EDS Framework by Future Dot Now
Essential Digital Skills Framework (Credit: Future Dot Now)

Fostering a digitally-enabled culture is pivotal to our nation’s success. As members of the Future Dot Now coalition, we aim to contribute valuable insights while benefiting from the expertise of other esteemed organisations within the coalition.

(Future Dot Now)

About IFB Gaming

IFB, an acronym for International Friends Bureau, is a hybrid bridge and connector research and learning organisation focused on the intersection of play, lifelong learning and digital exclusion.

What Membership in the Coalition Means to IFB Gaming

Given our unique positioning as a bridge research and learning organisation researching in English communities, affiliation with the coalition aligns with our mission in several ways:

  1. Support from Digital Inclusion Leaders: We anticipate garnering support from prominent individuals and organisations actively engaged in digital inclusion initiatives in England and Wales.
  2. Knowledge Exchange: Participating in the coalition allows us to share our insights and gain fresh perspectives and expertise specifically tailored to digital inclusion.
  3. Advocating Gamification: We intend to advocate for the benefits of gamification and emerging trends within the coalition.
  4. Awareness Initiatives: We aim to create awareness programs highlighting the myriad applications available to Third Sector organisations and community groups.
  5. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborative efforts within the coalition will contribute to strengthening the UK’s position through strategic partnerships within the Commonwealth.
  6. Promotion of Digital Skills Framework: We are committed to promoting the Essential Digital Skills Framework within BAME communities, starting from the grassroots level.
  7. Community Engagement: We will facilitate volunteering opportunities within the community and offer free or affordable workplace digital training and products to coalition members.

The Essential Digital Skills (EDS) Framework, outlined above, delineates five key skills and provides examples of tasks that individuals should master to demonstrate competence in each skill. Notably, the fifth skill—being safe, legal, and confident online—is interwoven across the other four.

The pandemic has accentuated existing gaps and exposed new challenges. It is evident that while there are numerous efforts underway in UK communities aimed at fostering a prosperous, connected, equitable, and sustainable digital economy, much of this work operates in isolation, often lacking proper documentation and alignment with systemic structures.

We firmly believe that a robust, comprehensive, and cyclical strategy is now imperative, one that is firmly grounded in strategic partnerships and driven from the grassroots and the policy (bottom-up-top-down), with a focus on empowering individuals and communities.

According to the City of London News Room, the UK is leading the digital revolution, with technology, media, and creative businesses outpacing the broader economy in terms of growth. Nevertheless, the rapid pace of change is leaving a significant portion of our population behind:

  • 53% of UK employees lack the essential digital skills necessary for the workplace.
  • 4.1 million adults in the UK remain ‘offline,’ with 75% indicating no motivation to change.
  • 11.3 million UK adults still lack the fundamental skills needed to access the internet, communicate effectively, and solve problems online.

The Future Dot Now coalition has made the following commitments, and we encourage other organisations to join us in this endeavour. Only through collective action can we develop fluid, interconnected, and sustainable solutions that are equal to the tasks and challenges that lie ahead.

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