Thursday, May 10, 2007

49% of americans do what?

A recent study(pdf) by the Pew Internet and American life Project concluded that:
49% of Americans only occasionally use modern gadgetry and many others bristle at electronic connectivity

Being a "Lackluster Veteran" that spends most of my day staring at a monitor I find it difficult to relate to the mindset of several of the other groups named in the findings. During the past few years I have completely removed myself from realm of broadcast television and I can't that I'm any worse for wear. The potential for the internet as a vehicle for delivery of information and entertainment will render all other mediums obsolete in the coming years.

Group name% of populationWhat you need to know about them
Elite Tech Users (31%)
Omnivores8%They have the most information gadgets and services, which they use voraciously to participate in cyberspace and express themselves online and do a range of Web 2.0 activities such as blogging or managing their own Web pages.
Connectors7%Between featured-packed cell phones and frequent online use, they connect to people and manage digital content using ICTs – all with high levels of satisfaction about how ICTs let them work with community groups and pursue hobbies.
Lackluster Veterans8%They are frequent users of the internet and less avid about cell phones. they are not thrilled with ICT-enabled connectivity.
Productivity Enhancers8%They have strongly positive views about how technology lets them keep up with others, do their jobs, and learn new things.
Middle-of-the road Tech Users (20%)
Mobile Centrics10%They fully embrace the functionality of their cell phones. they use the internet, but not often, and like how ICTs connect them to others.
Connected But Hassled10%They have invested in a lot of technology, but they find the connectivity intrusive and information something of a burden.
Few Tech Assets (49%)
Inexperienced Experimenters8%They occasionally take advantage of interactivity, but if they had more experience, they might do more with ICTs.
Light But Satisfied15%They have some technology, but it does not play a central role in their daily lives. they are satisfied with what ICTs do for them.
Indifferents11%Despite having either cell phones or online access, these users use ICTs only intermittently and find connectivity annoying.
Off the Network15%Those with neither cell phones nor internet connectivity tend to be older adults who are content with old media.

No comments: