The Proposed “Tech City” Should Secure London’s Status of Tech Hub for the Uk
The Greater London Assembly has announced its commitment to increasing London's contribution to the world of technology, continuing a tradition of innovation which has been long established through the history of the capital.
London is a Major Player in the Digital Revolution
The 19th century saw the birth of cutting-edge industries borne out of the vibrant and inventive minds living and working in the city. The 21st century could follow in that tradition, with London becoming a major player in the digital revolution by offering the leading lights of technology a place where they can explore the possibilities afforded by a new age of consumer and business interaction.
Silicon Roundabout London’s Tech Hub
The Silicon Roundabout and Old Street areas of East London are fast becoming synonymous as a Tech Hub. The Tech community of London now supports over 24,000 businesses, all dealing with technology in one way or another and with 48,000 jobs, which is about 30,000 more than Paris, the closest contender in the European market.
Some of the Major Players in Tech have Brought Their Business to East London
This has become a self-sustaining centre which has demonstrable appeal to smaller businesses which are still trying to establish their place in the global marketplace as well as some of the major players in the realm of technology who have brought their business to the area, including Yammer, Cisco, Amazon, Google and Facebook.
There are many Factors Working in London's Favour
When it comes to attracting this kind of business, not least the ubiquity of the English language, which is always a bonus to international companies. But being in an ideal time zone and having an enthusiastic, motivated and highly qualified work force is also a big plus.
The Proposed Tech City Demonstrates the Commitment Needed to Sustain Success
However, the success of the city to date can only be sustained with nurturing from those with the power to make it happen, not just in terms of encouraging these companies to continue to base themselves in London, but also by providing the kind of environment that the proposed Tech City Institute can offer in terms of supporting this growth and demonstrating a commitment to continuing development in the area.
With 50 million pledged by the government for the institute, it would be a physical manifestation of confidence in the future success of London as a hub of technology.
The Government must Devise an Onging Strategy for Technological Skill Development
There is a lot at stake and the importance of developing the skilled workforce of the future is becoming increasingly apparent. Any government plans must include provisions for the bright sparks of the future by encouraging and inspiring them and offering opportunities for maximising the potential of those to whom the technological torch will be passed.
Written by Adam Tachauer of Circle Square Talent
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