Something I am not quite at ease with yet is the right of everyone for fast web access, something you mentioned in reference to communities lacking the hardware, software, and connection.

These absolutely need providing for people to use effectively and in a manner to further their development and progress. What I am not keen to happen is that these things become added to the freebies which people are given, and then don’t help themselves – all too common in the UK where, IMHO, hard work and honesty is not rewarded, and intelligence and success can be ridiculed and attracts bitter comments and actions.

The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary. I just hope that fast web access is not yet another “right” chanted by the people who are never going to help themselves, and will always be sponging off society.

Well, I’ve gone slightly off topic here, but hope it makes sense!

The challenge facing Hull’s digital community is how best to promote and popularise social media. These new internet tools have to become the ‘property’ of Hull’s communities – particularly those communities which are currently excluded from them by lack of a basic hardware, software and internet connection.

Online networking, engagement and collaboration can empower communities who can then go on to affect change in the things that matter to them. But first communities need to know about the ‘tools’ available to them.

Another challenge brought about by new social media is that it makes things accessible to the complete novice – there is no reliance on the ‘geek’ to do things for you! This changes the relationship between those that seek to make a living out of new social media and those that wish to use it. This ‘conflict’ has still to be resolved in many cases.

The Government’s Digital Inclusion Team have set up a Wiki to explore the first issue at http://digitalinclusion.pbwiki.com/About+Us

I think the second will be partly resolved through effective networking of professionals and volunteers through networks like Hull Digital.

Keep up the good work Jon!