Digital experts, businesses and anyone with an interest in the online revolution are invited to attend Industrial Evolution – Calderdale’s Digital Future, a free one day event organised by Calderdale Council.
Industrial Evolution is an opportunity to share expertise and ideas on how Calderdale can become a centre for digital and technological excellence and innovation. And there’ll also be an opportunity for local businesses to learn what they need to do to win contracts to supply their digital services to the Council.
Technology journalist Gareth Halfacree, a speaker at the event said: “Technology can be a great leveller, but it is all too easy for businesses and individuals to be left behind in the rush towards the next big thing. Events like this provide not only opportunities for networking but a chance to hear from those who are at the forefront of the revolution, and to learn how it can be of benefit to the people, communities, and businesses in Calderdale and beyond.”
The event will explore how digital technologies can be used to improve the local economy; how local authorities can support the development of a digital community and how Council services can be made more accessible. There will also be a discussion on how open data can be used to develop a technical hub in Calderdale.
Leader of Calderdale Council, Cllr Stephen Baines MBE said: “The digital revolution is already in full swing and it’s vital that we create a strong digital community in Calderdale to exploit its full potential.
“The Industrial Evolution event will allow digital experts to extend their knowledge by sharing their ideas but it’s also the perfect introduction for anyone who feels they’re now ready to take their first steps in the digital world.
“Whether you’re a digital expert, or digital novice like me, this is your chance to find out more about the digital world, what it can do for you and your business and how the Council can support you.”
The highlight of the event will be an opportunity to join the debate on the future of the digital world and to put questions to a hand-picked group of digital movers and shakers, including the President of IBM’s Academy of Technology, Rashik Parmer.
Industrial Evolution – Calderdale’s Digital Future will be taking place from 8.30am to 4.30pm on Wednesday 1 October 2014 at the Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre in Halifax.