Digital Inclusion Initiative

Wyse is committed to the notion of Digital Inclusion, leveraging our solutions and services to help enable global access to information and services to diminish the digital divide that exists across the globe.  The digital divide is a challenge of both access and the ability to effectively use information and communications technologies (ICTs).  Information and communications technologies consist of connectivity, computer hardware and software, content, services and education.  Wyse is working to creatively and aggressively bring thin-computing solutions to the developing world. 

As of October 2005, only 15% of the world's population had access to the Internet, and more than 4 billion people live below the poverty line.  The majority of this population does not use banks; so imagine what providing them access to microfinance services could do to facilitate rural economic growth and means.  The majority of this population also relies on badly failing public healthcare systems; so imagine what providing them access to cost effective private healthcare services could do to facilitate care. Half of this population makes their living through agriculture; so imagine what providing them access to efficient markets and improved productivity could do for their personal income, and their local and national economy.  Finally, the majority of this population attends non-functioning schools, if they attend one at all; so imagine the impact of providing them access to educational tools and content, the potential to facilitate literacy and development, and, in doing so, provide membership in the connected global community.

Thin-computing solutions can enable this access.  However, Wyse does not believe in providing technology alone.  Rather, we are committed to understanding the real user needs and then providing solutions in collaboration with global and local technology, services, and content partners.  The thin-computing model - leveraging central management of applications, content and hardware, in combination with reliable, robust and inexpensive edge devices - is optimal in these environments.  Access delivered through thin-computing solutions does not come with a heavy burden of either cost or required knowledge of technology and systems.  Access is simple and easy, in any environment.

Because thin-computing solutions most efficiently enable communication and access, they also enable social and economic change from which the entire world can profit.

Some examples of Wyse Thin Computing Solutions providing Digital Inclusion
Introduction of Connectivity and Services, Uganda
Bridging the Digital Divide in India

Digital Inclusion Partners

Resources
AMD's 50x15 Initiative
World Resources Institute, Development through Enterprise Blog
United Nations Millenium Declaration and Goals
International Finance Corporation, World Bank