PwC is issuing a call to action to engage Canadians passionate about "digital transformation" in defining Canada's role in the digital economy. As a bridge between the decision makers in government, education and industry, this initiative will capture seed ideas and help to define some measures of success on how Canada can lead in the digital economy.
Just as the 90's internet boom (and bust) characterized the last 10 years, this decade is destined to become the one in which the possibilities and opportunities of the digital transformation take hold.
In 2009, Canada's ranking in the annual UN ranking of best countries to live fell from a previous #3 to #4. In the same year, we saw Nortel Networks, Canada's crown jewel of the 90's technology revolution was broken into pieces and sold off.
Just like Moore's Law described the exponential growth of computer power, the digital revolution is happening rapidly and is having a significant impact on every part of the economy and society. Canada's Digital Compass is the opportunity for Canadians of all demographics, from students to industry professionals to public policy enthusiasts to brainstorm and vote on ideas of how Canada can succeed and lead in a global digital economy and to define what success will look like to the nation. An increase in our UN ranking? Raising our GDP? Or simply capturing mindshare in the discussion on digital?
Every week, the community, along with an expert panel, will vote on the most promising ideas and directions in areas ranging from Content Creation to Education to Technology and Engineering, culminating in a final showdown of previous winners to determine Canada's Top 3 Ideas on how to lead the world in the new digital economy.
What technological innovation or technology focus could earn us the role as global leader?
Solutions we're looking for: Engineering and development of products and services that are inspired and innovative.
How could Canada foster the world's strongest creative, engineering and business talent?
Solutions we're looking for: Training and skills development programs and initiatives to create the expertise needed to lead in a new economy and great next generation leaders.
What new business models and approaches to content and distribution put Canada at the forefront?
Solutions we're looking for: Content and services that encompass video and film, broadcast, literature, games, and music etc.
What initiatives in infrastructure, networks and access could position Canada to lead a digital economy?
Solutions we're looking for: The networks that connect businesses and people including physical hardware and software that distribute, create, store and share data.
How could Canada foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship?
Solutions we're looking for: The cultural and commercial frameworks that make things work, such as regulatory, copyright, privacy, taxonomy, fair use, industry standards, cultural policies, digital rights management, etc.
Which three finalist ideas in connectivity, technology, education, policy development and media production provide Canada its best shot at leading in a global digital economy?
Vote to have your say on which three ideas should win!