Information Society


Finland has for quite some time now been a world leader in the field of mobile communications. GSM networks expanded countrywide in the mid ’90s, and now the third-generation networks are opening up. Broadband networks have also spread to nearly all population centres. According to a survey conducted in 1999, 85% of the population in the WFA area was accessible via broadband trunk lines. For the “final mile” – i.e. the last link from the broadband line to the consumer – solutions include modems, ISDN, ADSL, digital TV, cable TV, WLAN, fibre optic cable and in due course the third generation mobile communication networks.

In addition to the development of information and communication networks, applications for private-sector businesses, for the development of public-sector activities and for the distribution of public services to the citizens have become a priority. Experts in eBusiness can utilise telecommunications networks and ICT throughout a range of enterprise operations such as marketing, product development, production, financial management and corporate management. In the public sector, eGoverment expertise can be utilised to strengthen internal processes in the public sector. Public services for citizens are constantly being developed and expanded. The availability of services is being improved, more information is available, and the opportunities for individuals to influence the ways in which public issues are handled will be enhanced.

The information society is being developed in cooperation with tele-operators in the free market, with universities providing researchers and educators, and with private enterprises as the users of the technology as well as the producers of content. The end users will set the ultimate direction for development. Finns are known to be keen on taking up new opportunities.