Based on the relative diffusion of computers and the Internet in four disadvantaged socio-demographic groups (compared to national averages), the index is intended as a descriptive metric to compare basic levels of inclusion in EU-member states.

Because it reaches lower levels at higher rates of diffusion, however, DIDIX is neither proposed as a way to identify diffusion patterns at an early stage, nor to predict future developments. Its intent instead is to compare the diffusion of technology in at-risk groups with the population average. Results here suggest an increasing North-South gradient of cross-national inclusion prevailing in Europe. Applying the underlying methodology to other than simple access or use variables suggests that more attention should be paid to indexing the various skills and general benefits of IT.

Original URL:
http://www.stanford.edu/group/siqss/itandsociety/v01i07/v01i07a02.pdf

Language(s) available:
EN

Number of pages (Original version):
18

Nature of documentation: Independent reports and studies