Join the Revolution!
By: Francine E. Jefferson, Ph.D.
Telecommunications Policy Analyst
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
U.S. Department of Commerce
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We are living in an exciting time-in the midst of another major societal revolution-the Digital Revolution.
Up to now, human history has had two major benchmarks for cataloging human progress globally. There was the Agricultural Revolution and the Industrial Revolution. As we go through this exciting period of the Digital Revolution, my hope is that we will be active participants and not impotent bystanders. So, my DigitalSistas, I ask that you join in, be standard bearers, and help to proclaim the benefits and rewards of taking part in this revolution.
The integration of information technology into nearly every aspect of the economy and society (globally) is the hallmark of the Digital Revolution. Digital technology-memory, processors, storage, sensors, displays, and communications-- the features of a digital world are interconnected and functioning as one unit. For instance, telephones exchange information with computers, computers play compressed audio data files or live audio data streams over the Internet like radios; computers play movies and tune in to television. Global positioning systems, cell phones, wireless computers, truck drivers and dispatchers can be coordinated for deliveries and pickup. Large and small businesses are setting up "digital nervous systems" for monitoring and tracking business processes in real time. What connects these digital information technology devices-wireless and other broadband telecommunications networks.
You might ask, "What does this mean for us?" I suggest it means we pay close attention and become proactive with regard to our interests. Notice the changes in our society! Let me give two current examples.
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