Advances in IT are producing many changes in our society. These changes have produced many benefits, but they have also raised several concerns. Innovations in IT have created new jobs, promoted the growth of new markets, and increased international trade and investment.

However, the expansion of IT also introduces costs. Workers in certain sectors of the economy lose their jobs as innovations in IT create a greater demand for high-tech workers and introduce efficiencies that make jobs obsolete. Another negative consequence of the IT revolution is the inequitable distribution of access to IT, called the digital divide.

If the new technologies are to fulfill their promise, these costs and concerns will need to be addressed. Experience with previous technologies suggests that prudent policies can help us effectively manage the risks associated with new technologies without harm to their benefits. Experience also suggests that the required policies must be developed through close consultation between government and private sector experts and stakeholders.

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