Want to bring down the US trade deficit? One easy way is to reduce software piracy. At last count, the packaged-software industry was contributing a surplus of nearly $37 billion to the US balance of trade — and that was with one hand tied behind its back, because another $30 billion worth of sales are … Read More >>
Online Trust Takes More Than Mom’s Maiden Name
How many websites do you shop? How many passwords do you have for your various online accounts? How many times have you used your mother’s maiden name, your place of birth or some other piece of personally identifiable information to verify your identity in a transaction? Quite a few, I would guess, and therein lies … Read More >>
Finding Extra Value in an Era of Tight Budgeting
With sweeping budget proposals now on the table from President Obama and House Republicans, the debate over federal spending is gaining momentum this week in Washington. Not surprisingly, there are diverging views on many of the particulars in the budget. But all agree in principle that the fiscal situation demands belt-tightening — and all agree … Read More >>
A 10-Step Policy Plan for Cloud Computing In Europe
With its promise of greater efficiency, productivity and value for money, cloud computing has emerged at just the right time for businesses, governments and organizations looking to do more with less. For policy-makers, getting the balance between innovation and regulation right is a key challenge, and the debate is gaining momentum in Europe and elsewhere. … Read More >>
IPEC, One Year On
What a difference a year makes. In case you missed it, US Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator Victoria Espinel has released the first annual report outlining the Obama administration’s progress in implementing its strategy on intellectual property. It is just one report, but it speaks volumes.