Papers inadvertently released today tell the complex and inefficient story behind ICT-NZ the government set up industry group tasked to further the aims of the ICT industry here in New Zealand. ICT-NZ is funded via a complex chain of sources and is a perfect example of complex governmental organisations proving an ineffective model.
One only needs to look at the vibrant organically formed communities around the ICT industries to see that the most effective way to get industry group to form and perform is to facilitate their own creation.
I’m involved in an apparel industry group down here in Christchurch and, despite the best intentions of the central and local government organisations that fund and facilitate the group – at the end of the day its efficacy or otherwise is dependent on whether or not the industry players see it as a valuable, valid and worthwhile organisation to join.
Of course there definitely is a place for central facilitation of business groupings, I just think in this modern world there are better ways to do it.
I thought it unfortunate that some media outlets chose to focus on negatives. Something needed to be done and the new body provides a way forward.
Because ICT is such a central plank in economic development, yes the government should be contributing.
http://geniusnet.blogtown.co.nz/2007/11/25/ict-minister-pulls-out-plum-from-pre-xmas-pudding/