Innovation in Information Technology (IT) Industry
March 24, 2016
Aezaz Hussain, Systems Ltd, Lahore
Innovation in the use of Information technology is driven more by the discovering new ways of using it rather than by the developments in the technology itself. Had someone with foresight foretold the current capability of smart phones 20 years ago, the computer scientist would have said that of course it is very possible as the technology does already exist.
No doubt the technology has continued to become faster, more miniaturized, and dramatically cheaper, but the key elements which allow this dramatic improvement in usage have existed for over 2-3 decades.
In Pakistan this industry has a chequered past but has in the past decade reached a mature stage of availability to users. Starting from a complete ban on import of computing equipment from the early sixties to draconically regulated communication industry, Pakistan has in the last decade moved to an enabling and encouraging environment for the IT industry. This has led to its widespread use and impact on all spheres of economic activity.
With the world’s 8th largest mobile phone user’s base, and market driven communication costs, Pakistan has created a hugely incentivized environment for innovation in application of IT. This has been recognized by investors and has started drawing FDI and corporate investments.
In addition to traditional enterprise computing aided by a dramatically improved communication network, mobile computing is potentially the most disruptive force for changing governance and economic activity in Pakistan. Key impact is being seen and will continue to grow in:
- Financial Inclusion
- Government Services
- Medical Services
- Farmers extension services
- Industrial Productivity
Key constraints in the enabling environment which need to be addressed include access to venture capital and entrepreneurial mentoring and support.
Bio
Founded Systems Limited in 1977 as the first software house and IT services company in Pakistan and led it to-date. In this capacity has been involved in evolving IT strategies for major organizations in the government, public and private sectors and overseeing software development projects. Within the organization, he has been responsible for the internal restructuring needed to respond to the shift in the company’s strategy. This has included the acquisition of Visionet Systems, Inc., in New Jersey, USA. His main role has been in the development of enterprise strategy.
Prior to starting Systems Limited, he worked with IBM World Trade Corporation as Systems Engineer. Subsequently, he was with the National Fertilizer Corporation as Head of the Planning and Systems Department.
He was a member of Pakistan’s Information Technology Commission, which advised the President of Pakistan on IT related matters and national policies. He was founding member and founding president of Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA). He has been a member of a number of Committees and Advisory bodies set up by the government on information technology strategies and on the development of public sector/government information systems.
Labels: Abstract, Annual Conference, CREB, Management of Pakistan Economy, Twelfth Annual Conference
posted by S A J Shirazi @ 3/24/2016 01:16:00 PM,
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