The new ICT Research Forum will focus on making recommendations on the development and growth of the local software economy.

Formed by the International Institute for Software Economics, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Inc. (IISEIE) and the NZICT Group, the forum will bring together industry, academia and research communities to conduct research and make recommendations.

The goal is that research in ICT will assist with job production and drive economic growth in New Zealand. Using the research, forum members will recommend best-industry practices, including policy and programs in an effort to support the growth of the local software and digital economy.

NZICT CEO Brett O’Riley said: “With the formation of the forum and a high level of collaboration across a number of parties, New Zealand will benefit from knowing where we are and where we need to be as we enter the decade of digital technology.”

The official launch of the forum will be hosted by the Auckland ICT and held on January 28th at Microsoft’s conference facilities in Auckland. A Wellington event will be held in mid-February.