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A digital compass for decision makers: toolkit on disruptive technologies, impact and areas for action

18 July 2016

(From ec.europa.eu)

Digital transformation and technological advances are giving rise to disruptive business models, which are challenging the current regulatory environment.

It is necessary for high-level policy makers and regulators to better appreciate the functioning of advanced technologies and their applications, the massive opportunities they offer, as well as their social, economic and regulatory implications. 

Well-targeted, specialized digital training should become part of the professional development for all politicians and regulators as well as public and private sector executives at regional, national and EU level. This will help them design modern, flexible, future-proof policies to help European businesses take full advantage of the digital opportunities.

The Digital Compass highlights the possibilities, opportunities and effects of advanced digital technologies and sets out a three-stage approach to deliver effective, successful digital experiences to high-level policy makers:

  • Demonstrating the advanced technology and its applications.
  • Focus on the regulatory, economic, social and regulatory impact.
  • Going forward with adequate policy measures.

It showcases several digital experiences for a number of advanced technologies such as autonomous cars, virtual reality, robots, additive manufacturing (3D printing), big data analytics, wearable technologies, cybersecurity, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs/drones), blockchain technologies, etc. in order to enable a better understanding of the key opportunities and challenges to be addressed. 

Report and more information

A digital compass for decision makers: toolkit on disruptive technologies, impact and areas for action (PDF, 3 MB)

The Strategic Policy Forum on Digital Entrepreneurship