Research on Global Information Topics - Brazil
Framework Overview
Over the past several years, technology gains have played a key role as sources of well-being and wealth generation. A digital divide exists throughout the world between those that have access to Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) and those that do not. The guide is a tool to evaluate a country's readiness for the Networked World.
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Network Access
Lack of access to voice and data services is a significant hindrance for internet access in developing countries. Penetration varies based on geography, population, and income levels. Information infrastructure can be provided by physical and wireless media. For most developing countries, internet access is provided by traditional telecommunication networks however wireless access is becoming very attractive.
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Network Policy
Before 1997, telecommunication services in Brazil were supplied by the State and legally monopolized. The Brazilian Ministry of Communications governed policy formulation and telecommunications regulation. The Telebras System, a state holding company, was the largest telecommunications company in Latin America, employing 88,000 employees across 28 operators. Demands for more competition in the Brazilian telecommunications market led to regulation reform.
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Network Learning
The 2003 Program for International Student Assessment reported Brazil has .02 computers per student. Compared to countries in North America and Europe Brazil was trailing far behind. In the same report the United States had .30 computers per student and the United Kingdom had .23. Brazil also trailed behind other developing countries; Mexico was at .09 computers per student and Uruguay was at .05
Network Society
For the world's sixth most populous country, it was evident to envision that Brazil's dynamic society could benefit from the solutions of Information Technology. To our surprise, in the metropolitan areas, the progress of their networked society exceeded our expectations and our initial assumptions.
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Network Economy
Brazil has the eighth largest economy in the world. While Brazil had several years in the 2000 decade of very modest growth, the economy picked up in 2007, showing a growth of 5.1%. Inflation has remained moderate. 2006 recorded an inflation rate of 3.14%.Outsourcing
Brazil, a country that derives over 66% of its GDP from service industries (according to a 2003 estimate), is a key player in web and software programming, game development, IT support, network solutions, and offshore outsourcing services. A.T. Kearney Inc recently ranked Brazil #5 on the Global Services Location Index. Using 40 metrics, including labor pool, infrastructure and legal pool, A.T. Kearney assigns each country a Global Services Location Index.
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