The Importance of Collaboration in the Digital Economy

Collaboration between stakeholders is essential for the growth of the digital economy. Rapid technological change, societal shifts, and fresh business models are enhancing the ICT ecosystem's potential to catalyze economic growth and socio-economic development. However, delivering meaningful and affordable connectivity for all is a colossal undertaking, and cross-sector partnerships are key to ensuring success. Collaboration between governments, major ICT companies, new internet players, innovative small and medium enterprises, and non-traditional players in transport, health, or agriculture is necessary to streamline operations efficiently. The potential for cross-industry collaboration is enormous, notably regarding 5G technology, intelligent transport systems, and self-driving cars. The digital economy can yield significant gains in areas such as Industry 4.0, but fruitful collaborations amongst industry leaders, governments, and CSR departments is necessary to build feasible business models.