Do We Need a DICT?

In a commentary appearing in Inq7, Mano Alcuaz supports the view that the DICT need not be a large bureaucratic entity. He argues that the DICT (or whatever Congress decides to form) should act like a CIO for the government. Reading through his list of suggestions, I realized that all of them can be undertaken by the National Computer Center. More importantly, a department need not be created to what he proposes. The current set-up of CICT would suffice.

For me, I believe a DICT isn’t necessary for two reasons. First, we need to realize that ICT-related problems are temporary. In the near future, ICT issues will blend into the landscape and disappear altogether. All we need is a nurse-maid to get us through this transition period not a full-time doctor. What are we going to do with DICT when ICT isn’t a problem anymore?

Second, we have to accept that creating a new department will not make the industry grow any stronger than it is. I don’t believe the government can take credit for the growth of either the semi-conductor or the call center/BPO industry. Market forces and inherent competitive advantages are responsible for that. If we let market forces work, we’ll see how the industry will evolve. At best, government can be a strong supporter – a cheering squad, if you will. It’s unrealistic to think that the DICT can carry the ICT industry to some rosy future. The industry can do it on its own without government help. They always have anyway.