Description
Digital Technology 360° takes us on a fascinating journey into the world of digital transformation—one where ITU, as the UN agency for digital technologies, plays a critical role in shaping a future that works for people and planet. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the rapid pace of digital innovation and its impact, helping us reflect on how far we’ve come, the challenges we face today, and the opportunities that lie ahead. What’s at stake is nothing less than the opportunity to write the next chapter in the great story of humanity and technology together.
- Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary General of The International Telecommunications Union (ITU)
Authoritative, timely and sweeping in its scope, Digital Technology 360, cuts through the hype and skepticism to illuminate the digital landscape with clarity and insight. More than just a guide to the transformative forces shaping our world, this book helps us to understand what’s next – and our shared responsibility to harness digital innovation and technology in a way that serves humanity.
- Daren Tang, Director General of the World Intellectual Property (WIPO)
Digital technologies are at the heart of sustainable development and transformation. They are a key tool to achieve Agenda 2030 and to address many of the world’s most pressing challenges. However, while they create many new opportunities, the widening of the digital divides threatens to leave developing countries further behind. As digitalization is shaping our societies and economies, we need to better understand how can it accelerate and enable productive capacities of individuals, communities, countries and regions, or contribute to ease regional integration. At the same time, it is imperative to scale up efforts to close the digital divide across the global south, ensuring meaningful and affordable digital connectivity in all countries, including for marginalized and rural communities, as well as access to skills and digital literacy. We must ensure that men and women enjoy equal opportunities in the digital economy, as users, workers, entrepreneurs, and investors.
This book is an invaluable resource for policymakers, diplomats, innovators, civil society professionals ,students and citizens alike, who are committed to ensuring that digital technologies serves humanity and advances inclusive, sustainable and meaningful development for all and everywhere.
- Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
Digital Technology 360° is more than a technical guide—it provides a comprehensive perspective on the digital revolution. It delves into the societal, economic, and ethical implications of transformative technologies such as AI, Cloud Computing, and the Internet of Things. With expert insights and practical strategies, this book equips readers to navigate the governance, opportunities and challenges of our fast-evolving AI-driven digital world.
- Tshilidzi Marwala,PhD , Under-Secretary General of the United Nations and Rector of the United Nations University and Forner Vice Chancellor, University of Johannesburg. South Africa
As we stand on the brink of unprecedented technological advancement, Digital Technology 360° – A Global View underscores the critical role of digital innovation in shaping our collective future. With the adoption of initiatives like the Global Digital Compact and the transformative work of the Secretary-General’s High-level Advisory Body on AI , the themes explored in this book are more relevant than ever. It calls upon policymakers, innovators, and global citizens to embrace not only the potential of the digital age but also the shared responsibility of ensuring that these technologies serve humanity equitably and sustainably. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, this work offers both a blueprint for action and a reminder of the enduring values that must guide our progress.
- Amandeep Singh Gill, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Secretary- General's Envoy on Technology
DESCRIPTION
Digital Technology 360° is a comprehensive guide to understanding the fundamentals and implications of today’s most transformative technologies. From foundational innovations like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and big data to emerging fields like the IoT, 5G/6G, the metaverse, and quantum computing, this book offers an unparalleled exploration of digital technologies shaping the world.
Going beyond the technical aspects, the book connects technology with its broader societal impacts by examining the roles of industry, governments, NGOs, and United Nations agencies in fostering innovation, setting standards, and addressing ethical considerations. It explores opportunities and risks, offering strategic insights into navigating challenges such as AI safety, data privacy, and technology governance. Readers will gain the tools to understand trends, prepare for future developments, and make informed decisions about adopting and utilizing digital technologies in ways that align with both business goals and global ethical standards.
By the end of this book, you will have a well-rounded understanding of digital technology, helping you to make informed decisions in a world increasingly driven by technology. Digital Technology 360° provides a well-rounded foundation to navigate the digital age effectively.
KEY FEATURES
- Learn to use AI, IoT, cloud computing, metaverse, and quantum computing effectively.
- Discover how technology aligns with global policies, ethics, and human rights.
- Master strategies to identify trends, reduce risks, and seize opportunities.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
- Grasp the basics of digital technologies, including AI, cloud computing, IoT, 5G/6G, quantum computing, and the metaverse.
- Understand the risks and challenges of developing and using digital technology.
- Develop strategic thinking to balance business benefits with safety and ethical considerations.
- Explore the global standards and governance landscape for digital technology adoption.
- Learn how leaders can foster international collaboration in adopting digital advancements.
WHO THIS BOOK IS FOR
Whether you are a policymaker, engineer, IT professional, business manager, or simply curious about digital applications, this book equips you to engage with the technologies driving the digital revolution.
