I know, I know, I keep harping on about it and as ever nothing happens from central government, the so called ‘Czar’ and the other digital hangers on…..
But this is different. What does Digital Inclusion really mean to me?
It strikes me that the retailers have yet to see the opportunities here. The ability for them to reach right into a subscribers home, for them, is, or must be, an advertising pot of gold (though what the subscribers might think is another matter lol).
I mean because it is IP we are able to provide advertisers with as much demographics as they need. Who watched what, for how long and when would allow targeted advertising to be provided (which could be ignored or not as the subscriber wished, there could even be a opt in/out for a reduced subscription maybe). More importantly it can be linked via the portal to special deals, events, promotions etc to the local community thereby creating a virtual ‘High Street’ which would be truly local.
Real IP Digital solutions would allow for a community to create and broadcast their own content, their own music and information relevant to them. Why can’t local people create their own online community radio and TV that’s broadcast on the closed system locally using local talent, local bands (thereby getting round copyright issues (I think))? Why not have local colleges and universities creating a virtual LOCAL campus, offering Videos of lectures to a wider audience?
And I think this is the trick that the big three have missed. You still get what they give you, they still really offer no choice.
All this can be done TODAY, NOW but not by the big three…all they are interested in is profit…Digital inclusion is not all about profit (although some would be nice).
Now if only the great and good would put their money where their collective mouths are and give the innovators a chance……if only……..
