The government is dedicated to carrying out digital transformation in a “RITE” manner, according to Senator Dana Morris Dixon, minister without portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for skills and digital transformation.

RITE is the acronym for Respect, Inclusion, Trust and Efficiency.

At the Microsoft Black Partner Growth Initiative (BPGI) Innovation Round-Table Forum on Thursday, April 18, at the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) head office in Kingston, Morris-Dixon emphasised that the nation’s digital transformation path is based on mutual respect.

“If we respect people, we don’t have them standing in long lines. If we respect people, we don’t have inefficient processes. If we respect people, we don’t ask them for the same information over and over again,” she shared.

Morris Dixon stated that systems must be designed with the understanding that not all citizens have the same level of digital literacy and that inclusiveness is a crucial part of the digital transformation.

“We have to look at what technology they use. They use WhatsApp a lot. Are we doing enough in government to deliver services through WhatsApp?” she asked.

The minister further shared that Jamaica has a low-trust environment in many respects, and systems must be created with this component embedded in them.

According to Morris Dixon, ensuring security and efficiency in government and private sectors is crucial for public trust and growth. Improving efficiency is essential for overall success.

The government is dedicated to fostering a conducive environment for businesses and leveraging digital technologies for social and economic benefit, said Morris Dixon.

The forum, a result of the September 2023 Export and Investment Business Ministerial Mission to New York, was led by Senator Aubyn Hill.

JAMPRO President Shullette Cox highlighted the forum as the initial stage of collaboration between the government, Microsoft, and private-sector entities.

Microsoft presented Project Blue Mountain, which is a strategic initiative aimed at accelerating Jamaica’s digital transformation to become the premier hub for talent development in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) within the Caribbean.

She encouraged participants to explore the tools, products and solutions that can enable them to increase their sales pipeline locally and overseas.

Cox emphasised the importance of gaining insights on Microsoft’s sales organisation and connecting with executives. Engage Jamaican companies to innovate and forge strategic connections, contributing to overall country growth.