For us, ‘digital’ is the complex interaction of people, processes and technology
to create socio-economic benefits for all. In the digital economy, digital networking
and communication infrastructures provide a global platform over which people and
organisations can interact, communicate, collaborate and share information.
Digital technologies are transforming business, government and society. For example,
digital technologies offer huge potential for providing efficient and easy access
to public services. They can connect people in rural areas, enable remote access
to healthcare, build social inclusion, and help solve our energy crisis. It has
been estimated that if everyone was connected the Treasury would make overnight
savings of £1.77bn.
The UK has strong and vibrant creative industries and ICT sectors well placed
to take advantage of the opportunities provided by new digital technologies and
services not just from a technology perspective but also from non-technological
angles such as human experience, consumer demand or nature of business models.
Learn more about the Research Councils UK Digital Economy Theme
and our Advisory Structure.
Digital Economy Impact Review
EPSRC, on behalf of the UK Research Councils, is conducting a review of the impact of RCUK-supported Digital Economy research over the coming months. This review will focus on the entire Research Councils’ Digital Economy portfolio, not just on the research and training supported by the RCUK Digital Economy Theme. Further details are available here.
For further information on the programme please see our contacts page.