Tech View: Digital readiness enables us to navigate daily life

In our increasingly digitally connected world, a reliable, high-speed internet connection is critical. Equally important, however, is digital readiness.

Digital readiness is not about having the newest devices and apps. It is about empowering people — ensuring everyone, from keiki to kupuna, has the skills needed to participate safely and confidently in today’s digital world.

Just as reading is essential to staying informed, engaging civically and navigating daily life, digital literacy is now a fundamental skill. Basic digital know­ledge is necessary for school, work, health care and many everyday activities that save us time, reduce costs and improve our quality of life.

Digital preparedness goes beyond knowing how to use a smartphone, tablet or computer. It’s more than understanding email, browsing the internet or joining a video meeting.

Imagine keiki who can confidently complete their homework because they know basic computer skills and no longer feel embarrassed or left behind. And, imagine homebound kupu­­na who can continue to live independently because they know how to order groceries online for home delivery and can use digital security systems to protect themselves and their property. Or imagine neighbor island residents in remote, rural communities gaining access to life-saving telehealth appointments with specialists previously out of reach.

All these everyday tasks require basic digital skills. When people lack the ability or confidence to navigate technology, the impacts reach beyond inconvenience. We risk widening the social, economic, educational and health disparities that already challenge our island communities.

Broadband infrastructure and access to devices are part of the foundation for digital equity, but digital readiness is what allows people to truly benefit from that increased connection.

Fortunately, a number of organizations offer no-cost programs to help build digital literacy. You can find them on the Connect Kakou website at connectkakou.org/digital-literacy, which links to a range of resources. A good starting point is taking the Northstar Digital Literacy Assessment, a simple online quiz that helps you understand what you already know and what you can learn.

You can also make appointments for online or in-person courses offered by the Hawaii State Public Library System. If you prefer to learn at your own pace, self-guided tutorials are available at DigitalLearn.org.

As technology evolves at a rapid pace, digital readiness must also include skills that help protect against identity theft, phishing, scams, data breaches and other cyberthreats. This includes knowing how to keep software and devices up to date, using trusted apps and websites, fact checking, and identifying and deleting deceptive online content. Strong digital skills make individuals less vulnerable to fraud and financial loss.

CyberHawaii, a local nonprofit, provides valuable tips to help individuals and businesses protect themselves against cyberthreats, along with information on how to report incidents. More resources are available at cyberhawaii.org/resources.

Digital readiness is a lifelong process. As new tools and platforms emerge, all of us must remain open to continuous learning — even when technology feels unfamiliar and intimidating. By staying engaged and helping both keiki and kupuna build digital confidence, we ensure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of the digital world while staying safe from those who misuse it.

Steven Golden is vice president of external affairs for Hawaiian Telcom. He can be reached at steven.golden@hawaiiantel.com.