Low Connectivity Rating Shouldn’t Discourage Czechs

At first glance, the Czech Republic’s 2009 Connectivity Scorecard rating could seem discouraging.  Data suggests that the country’s struggle to emerge from communism and become a full member of the European Union has held back connectivity growth. 

However, many indicators point to strong potential for future improvements in connectivity.  Mobile penetration is very high amongst consumers, and internet use is also strong thanks to the proliferation of public access points. 

The surge in the Czech Republic’s GDP has been accompanied by a rise in business IT, giving them the second-highest rate of ICT-specialist employment. 

Business connectivity scores are notably improved for 2009 versus 2008.  Government internet offerings have also improved, bringing the country to just under the median Brookings Institution’s E-Government measure.  That said, the country’s connectivity is still behind the Western European standard.

Czech Republic Connectivity Performance by Scorecard Component