Abstract
New technology has long been touted as a driving force to innovate and advance society. Especially, digital technology has been perceived as a potential power to transform the social, cultural, and political topography of a society. Darrell M. West argues that leaders both in public and private sectors should exploit digital technology to promote innovation in public and private organizations.
The Next Wave consists of five parts dealing with “technology innovation,” “digital platforms,” “policy considerations,” “normative concerns,” and “conclusion.” Part I introduces the importance of technology advances both in public and private sectors, respectively. In Chapter Two, the author emphasizes the role of technology in facilitating citizens’ public engagement by improving efficiency, productivity, transparency, and collaboration. Chapter Three presents the health care system response to digital technology as an example of digital revolution in the private sector. Part II narrows down to specific platforms, “Cloud Computing” and “High-Speed Broadband,” within which digital innovation achieves not only financial and economic efficiencies but also social connection and civic engagement in different countries. Part III directs the readers’ attention to policy aspects of technology innovation. Chapter Six reveals the fact that the private sector outperforms the public sector in terms of technology innovation, and suggests ways to help the public sector become more innovative. Chapter Seven analyzes survey data on consumer behavior and attitudes on mobile communications. In turn, Part IV deals with the normative aspects of technology innovation. Chapter Eight specifically spotlights personalized medicine and health information technology, and provides policy recommendations for better interoperability, data-sharing, and privacy controls. Chapter Nine examines the new digital media, focusing on new ways that news media function and people get information. Chapter Ten follows with the potential concerns and safeguards about privacy and security in public and private sectors in the digital age. Finally, at the conclusion, West suggests ways to encourage innovation by introducing incentives and policy changes.
Although there have been unresolved debates over whether the ramifications of technology innovation are beneficial to society, the author suggests a pragmatic compromise rather than solving fundamental disputes over the issues. This book will provide policymakers and business leaders with pragmatic evidence that digital technology can promote not only economic efficiency but also social and political innovation throughout society.
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