Tablets drive increase in older people going online, Ofcom finds
The number of people aged 65 and over accessing the internet has risen by more than a quarter in the past year, from 33% to 42%, driven by an increase in the use of tablet computers in that age group from 5% to 17%, new Ofcom research reveals. This trend has helped to drive overall internet use up from 79% of adults in 2012 to 83% in 2013, according to communication regulator's "Adults' media use and attitudes" report. However older people spend significantly less time surfing the web than younger people (16-24 year olds), who on average spend more than a whole day (24 hours 12 minutes) each week online, the report finds. UK adult internet users spend an estimated average 16 hours 54 minutes online each week, compared with 9 hours 12 minutes a week among those over 65. When it comes to smartphone and mobile apps, more than half of apps downloaded are 'redundant', the research finds: on average, smartphone owners have 23 apps installed, but only 10 are used regularly. Preferred uses for apps include reading news and downloading videos and music, while internet browsers are preferred for shopping and searching for information.
Pictured: Infographic highlighting findings on use of apps, part of Ofcom's new media use and attitudes research
Ofcom data and research: http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/market-data-research/
PSN suppliers support local government advisory group
PSNGB, the industry association for Public Services Network (PSN) suppliers and the Local Government Solutions Advisory Group, co-ordinated by Socitm, have announced they will work together as part of a network of subject matter experts. The aim is to develop and promote solutions that enable collaboration between local public services, the body says. The Public Services Network (PSN) is an initiative managed by the Cabinet Office to create a common network and a more open and competitive ICT marketplace for the UK public sector. The primary common infrastructure for the majority of government communications in the UK, PSN aims to save money and enable better, more efficient and joined-up public services. Founded on compliance with agreed standards, it is made up of interconnected networks from competing suppliers. PSN Solutions Advisory Group is being established by Socitm to set out a strategic vision for use of the PSN by local government, helping councils implement solutions that are both innovative and secure. Currently staffed by volunteers, it is looking to secure resources through a 'crowdfunding' exercise.
PSNGB: www.psngb.org
PSN Solutions Advisory Group funding portal: http://www.socitm.net/psn-solutions-advisory-group-funding-portal
