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Benefits of connected communities

To help create an understanding of a Connected Community it may be valuable to look at the benefits yielded, whether they are long or short term. Seen as every Community differs slightly, the benefits may also differ.

Some of the real advantages that could benefit Connected Communities are mentioned below. These are structured into categories representing different interest areas.

Residents

• Can obtain relevant information, services and subjects of interest automatically, anytime, any place
• Can easily communicate with others whether for social, educational, employment, health or security reasons.
• Participate in the creation on community content for instance TV, radio.
• Come together to purchase services, request services, respond to initiatives and support its residents.
• Work at a time that suits them
• Develop strong ICT skills
• Access relevant job opportunities along with details of travel, benefit changes and other consequences

Education

• Students/pupils can access the same services at home and school/college
• Learning can be integrated into work and other activities
• Learning can be interactive and as a result more motivating
• Many courses are available electronically
• Learning can be more directed towards work and social needs
• Lifelong learning can truly take place; as there is access to learning at home, college, libraries and work

Public Services

• Public services can be delivered electronically, accessible from the home or on the move
• Can be provided in a relevant manner in response to residents needs
• Public services can be proactively promoted to those who may need or be entitled to them
• Immediate consultation and response on public services
• Greater direct communication between public and politicians
• Meetings and advice sessions can be conducted remotely
• Groups can identify more easily those people who may need help and advice

Businesses

• Local businesses can be accessed electronically and therefore open at any time of the day.
• Businesses can come together and procure goods and services
• Local businesses have access to wider national and global markets
• Comprehensive business start-up service can be available 24 hours a day
• Businesses can have as strong a presence as a global company
• Local businesses can promote appropriate service to relevant residents
• Investors find the infrastructure and services necessary to encourage local investment