Minister for Economy and Transport, Ken Skates, has today welcomed the final report by Cardiff University’s Professor Phillip Brown into how rapid advances in digital innovation are likely to impact the economy and future of work in Wales.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The Digital Innovation Review was commissioned by the Welsh Government to explore the opportunities and challenges presented by digital innovation and their likely impact in Wales in the future.
Chaired by Professor Phillip Brown, an Expert Panel of influential business leaders, academics, practitioners and entrepreneurs in digital innovation contributed towards the review.
The final report sets out what practical and long term actions Wales can take to meet the challenges of digital innovation and the opportunities they present.
It is being predicted that developments in technology will make a major difference on the way we live and work. The findings of the report explore how advancements in automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, internet of things and large scale data will have an impact.
Recommendations in the review include the possibility of establishing an Artificial Intelligence Institute for Wales and strengthening analysis on demand for skills and future job opportunities.
Wales is already home to some of the most innovative and highly regarded tech, cyber, fintech and semiconductor companies in the world offering Welsh businesses a new opportunity to be at the cutting edge in using technology to enhance people’s lives.
Minister for Economy and Transport Ken Skates, said:
It’s clear that digital innovation will play a huge role in not only ensuring Wales’ economic and work landscape is fit for the future, but that we’re exploiting opportunities new technologies present to continue building an economy that is ambitious, innovative and inclusive for all.
I would like to thank Professor Phillip Brown, his Expert Panel and all of the organisations and individuals for their work. Their knowledge and expertise has been vital in shaping this report which I will consider very carefully.
Professor Phillip Brown said:
Digital innovation can be a game changer for Wales but it’s important to remember that technology is not fate. We can only truly harness the positive influence of digital innovation if we adopt a different way of thinking and dare to do things differently.
I hope this report acts as a catalyst to ignite a national conversation on what digital innovation means for the people and communities of Wales, not just the high-tech innovative businesses of the future.