From AI chaos to £5 million guaranteed savings. On Wednesday 2 July hear about how this can work...
Webinar |

From digital equity to excellence. Digital inclusion framework and scorecard

Authors and contributors: ALGIM, LOLA
YouTube video

From digital equity to excellence. Digital inclusion framework and scorecard – targeted solutions

This webinar features renowned digital strategist and community leader Elle Archer, who introduces a transformative approach to digital inclusion.

The session explores the Digital Equity Framework (DEF) and the Digital Inclusion Scorecard (DIS)—tools designed to help local governments move from digital equity to digital excellence and enrichment.

Key themes and takeaways

The Digital Equity Framework (DEF)

  • Developed in Aotearoa New Zealand with a strong indigenous lens.
  • Uses the metaphor of a waka (canoe) to represent six foundational pillars:
    • Identity – Cultural representation and digital citizenship.
    • Motivation – Community engagement and digital confidence.
    • Access – Infrastructure, affordability, and public connectivity.
    • Skills – Digital literacy and training opportunities.
    • Trust – Confidence in systems, privacy, and data sovereignty.
    • Safety – Cybersecurity, online harm prevention, and resilience.

The Digital Inclusion Scorecard (DIS)

  • A data-driven tool scoring regions from 0–100 based on digital inclusion.
  • Score ranges:
    • 0–20: Critical gaps
    • 21–50: Foundational issues
    • 51–75: Developing equity
    • 76–100: Achieving inclusion

Case Study: Selwyn District, New Zealand

  • Overall Score: 71/100 – “Developing Equity”
  • Strengths:
    • Strong cultural engagement and digital events.
    • High awareness of digital literacy programs.
  • Challenges:
    • Low participation among older adults and underserved groups.
    • Inconsistent broadband affordability and reliability.
    • Rising cybersecurity concerns and low trust in digital systems.

Strategic recommendations

  • Upskill underserved communities through tailored training.
  • Build trust via transparent data practices and public campaigns.
  • Improve access by partnering with ISPs and community groups.
  • Enhance safety with district-wide cybersecurity frameworks.
  • Boost engagement through mentorship and digital badging programs.

Looking ahead

Elle announced the formation of a Global Digital Inclusion Advisory Council to:

  • Support local governments in implementing the DIS.
  • Facilitate international benchmarking and knowledge sharing.
  • Promote ethical, inclusive, and scalable digital transformation.