Panel Reviews Digital Future of Wales

A Digital Innovation Review commissioned by the Welsh Government is calling for far-reaching reforms to deliver economic transformation for a better future of work.

The review, chaired by Professor Phillip Brown, Distinguished Research Professor, School of Social Sciences, at the University of Cardiff, was conducted by an Expert Panel of influential business leaders, academics, practitioners and entrepreneurs in digital innovation. It sets out  what practical and long-term actions Wales can take to meet the challenges of digital innovation and the opportunities they present.

Recommendations in the review include the possibility of establishing an Artificial Intelligence Institute for Wales and strengthening analysis on demand for skills and future job opportunities. Other leading recommendations included supporting the creation of six Industrial Innovation Clusters (IICs) to develop Industrial Transformation Roadmaps (ITRs); Integrating existing business, skills and innovation support to form a single business diagnostic and transformation process; Establishing a new Lab for Work@Wales4.0 to act as a central resource for industry, government and social partners.

Minister for Economy and Transport, Ken Skates, said: “It’s clear that digital innovation will play a huge role in not only ensuring Wales’ economic and work landscape is fit for the future, but that we’re exploiting opportunities new technologies present to continue building an economy that is ambitious, innovative and inclusive for all.

Professor Phillip Brown said: “Digital innovation can be a game changer for Wales but it’s important to remember that technology is not fate. We can only truly harness the positive influence of digital innovation if we adopt a different way of thinking and dare to do things differently.

“I hope this report acts as a catalyst to ignite a national conversation on what digital innovation means for the people and communities of Wales, not just the high-tech innovative businesses of the future.”

The ‘Review of digital innovation: delivering economic transformation for a better future of work’ was launched on Sept 27 at Tramshed Tech Cardiff. It can be viewed on www.gov.wales