Digital literacy productivity worth $1.7 billion

A report released today by the New Zealand Computer Society (NZCS) found that implementing a digital literacy standard would increase New Zealand’s productivity by $1.7 billion per year.

The report was completed by research consultants KnowledgeWeaversNZ on behalf of the NZCS and analysed the findings of research conducted around the world and applied to New Zealand to find the expected outcome of implementing similar programs in the country.

"In terms of improved productivity, the report conservatively projects average savings per worker in New Zealand of $1820 per annum as a direct result of improved ICT skills and confidence after implementing a digital literacy standard,” said Paul Matthews, NZCS Chief Executive.

He added: “Projected across 70% of the country’s working population, this results in a net productivity improvement across New Zealand of $1.7 billion per year.”

The NZCS supports all digital literacy programmes and efforts, but endorses International Computer Driving Liecense (ICDL) in New Zealand. ICDL is used in 148 countries and has more than 9 million participants.