Designated an "IT Business Model Area" in April 2003 by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the City of Osaka has been promoting the use of IT(ICT) in urban development. In July 2003, the city convened the Osaka Ubiquitous City Conference. This conference of influential individuals compiled its proposals in December 2004, based on active discussions on using IT(ICT) to enhance the appeal of festivities and cultural events and to stimulate city activities and related industries.
In August 2003, Osaka City called on national government agencies, industrial communities, and academia to establish the Osaka Ubiquitous Network Promotion Consortium. Comprising 30 groups, the consortium is carrying out demonstration tests to stimulate the city economy and develop IT(ICT)-related services in the central business district, where IT(ICT)-related firms are concentrated. Acting as the secretariat, we are working to ensure the smooth implementation of the tests by coordinating procedures among various groups, working on public relations, and facilitating technical tie-ups. We also convened a symposium for city residents in order to promote the benefits of ubiquitous networks.
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