Denmark tops in e-readiness survey

Asian countries advance in the 2007 e-readiness rankings, as the goalposts of digital leadership shift

E-readiness continues to improve around the world in 2007, but achieving it is becoming more complex. To reflect this, the Economist Intelligence Unit has "raised the bar" of e-readiness by modifying its ranking methodology. This change in methodology, along with underlying improvements in individual countries, has led to changes in the league table. Several countries, particularly in Asia, have seen their positions improve, while others have experienced declines. At the same time, the fundamental tenets of e-readiness remain unchanged, and the leaders in 2006 are still leaders today—nine of last year’s top ten countries remain in that bracket.

Denmark and the United States retain their number one and two spots in the rankings (with Sweden also tied for second), but Hong Kong (fourth), Singapore (sixth), South Korea (16th), Taiwan (17th) and Japan (18th) have experienced a boost in 2007 in both scores and ranks. This is largely due to their governments' vision and commitment in pushing digital development, and to continued progress in the adoption of broadband and other advanced infrastructure.

Several top-ten countries experienced a shift in their overall e-readiness performance as a result of the methodology changes. A sharpened focus on the policy environment and e-government, as well as on education and innovation, has helped Switzerland (fifth), Canada (13th), Germany (19th) and Ireland (21st). Their e-readiness has not declined, but the model refinements have uncovered areas, where they and other countries must improve to maintain progress.

22 August 2007, Economist