Working Paper Series: Special Edition of 2016 to 2018 Interns

6.4. Informatics and Information Technology Informatics and information technology (IT) involve the storage, retrieval and sharing of data utilizing computer systems and telecommunications. In most industries today this science plays a critical role in enabling functions such as knowledge management, business intelligence, administrative and legal tasks and has played a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of businesses globally. In 2011, it was estimated that that information technology boosted world economic output by nearly US$200 billion and created 6 million jobs (Bilbao-Osorio, Dutta & Lanvin, 2013). However, in Saint Lucia the social and economic impact ensuing from the use of IT remains low due to the sluggishness of the adaptation of new technology and new functions of existing technology in the private and public sector. As a result the country is yet to enjoy any substantial gains from the role that IT can play in supporting economic growth and creating high quality jobs. In the private sector, the use of IT is pivotal to enhancing product quality, product marketability through widening the geographical scope of potential markets and enhancing profitability through lower transaction and administrative costs and improved efficiencies. In the public sector IT can result in administrative efficiencies including cost and time savings. IT is central to the development agenda if the country is aiming to create a contemporary, efficient and innovative economy. Jobs requiring an IT background span all sectors of the economy. Many specialised jobs in this sector rely on tertiary training. Specialised jobs include systems analysts, database administrators, network security specialists and software developers. However, because of the wide spread use of computers in both the private and public sectors, IT should be as fundamental as numeracy and literacy skills and thus should be compulsory at both primary and secondary school levels. Jobs in IT not requiring tertiary level training include data entry clerk, application developer and technical support. 6.5. Creative Industries The creative sector covers advertising, architecture, books, gaming, movies, music, newspapers/magazines, performing arts, radio, television and visual arts. It is estimated that the creative industries accounted for 29.5 million jobs globally in 2015 with revenue to the sector

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