Challenge

European policymakers lacked reliable and comparable regional data on the development of Information Society. Existing indicators mainly focused on national performance, used different definitions or did not adequately cover policy areas such as business, employment, healthcare and transport. This made it difficult to identify regional differences and design targeted digital-development policies.

Solutions

BISER reviewed statistical indicators from public and other available sources and developed a new set of eEurope Regional Indicators. These indicators were designed to measure and compare digital development across European regions in a consistent and policy-relevant way.

The data-collection methods were tested in 28 selected European regions through two representative surveys involving approximately 10,000 citizens and 5,000 decision-makers. BISER also cooperated with statistical organisations and developed a geographic information system for presenting regional results.

Results

BISER established a harmonised framework for benchmarking Information Society development at regional level. It provided a clearer picture of regional strengths, disparities and shared development patterns, helping policymakers identify areas requiring targeted support or regional cooperation.

The project also documented and shared its indicator, survey methods and regional findings through reports, workshops, its website and an international conference. This strengthened the evidence base for regional digital, economic-development and social-cohesion policies.