According to the International Telecommunication Union ” ITU” the information society is a society that provides opportunity for each person to create, collect, use, and share information and knowledge, enabling individuals, communities and peoples to achieve their full potential in promoting their sustainable development and improving their quality of life, premised on the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and respecting fully and upholding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
The defining characteristics of an information society include:
- Widespread use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs): An information society based on prevalent and widespread use of digital technologies, including the internet, computers, cell phones, etc.
- Access to information: Members of the society have easy access to a wide range of information through digital media, online databases, social networks, etc.
- Digital communication: Communication within the information society takes place mainly via digital communications, such as emails, instant messaging, social networks, and video calls.
- Digital economy: A significant portion of the economy in an information society is based on digital activities, including e-commerce, online advertising, technology startups, etc.
- Industry transformation: Traditional sectors are being influenced and transformed by the use of ICT, leading to changes in business models, production and distribution.
- Big Data: Data is produced in massive quantities, requiring skills in data analysis and information management.
- Digital inclusion: Information societies strive to ensure digital inclusion by providing equitable access to ICTs, especially for marginalized populations.
- Online education: Education is increasingly digital, with online courses, digital educational resources and online learning tools.
- Digital governance: Governments and institutions use digital technologies to improve public service delivery, transparency, and citizen’s participation.
- Security and data protection: With the growth of digital information, online security and personal data protection become major concerns.
- Continuous innovation: Information societies are characterized by high rate of technological innovation and adaptation to constant changes.
These characteristics vary from one society to another depending on their degree of technological development and their use of ICTs.