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Information Technology in Colombia
IT Usage by Households, Business, Government and Military

In 1995 there were 1,058,725 computers in Colombia worth an estimated $ 3,472.9 million US 1995 dollars.  (28) With a population of approximately 36 million, that equates to 34 persons per computer, or .034 computers per 1,000 Colombians.

Government is considered the largest share of computer owners, followed by services, and finally home usage.   It is expected that home computer usage will increase greatly as the telecommunications structure of the country improves and consumers realize the benefits of technology such as the Internet.

Historically, IT growth has been controlled by the centralized government and spurred by government and large business needs.  However, now that the country is becoming privatized, IT growth will be noticed in areas utilized by smaller companies and home users.

IT usage and growth in the past has been centered around Colombia's distribution areas and financial uses such as inventory control and billing.  These segments still encourage IT innovation and growth.

Private business is also growing its IT usage through the entrance of multinationals such as Microsoft, AT&T, IBM, and Compaq have entered the Colombian market.  Colombia stands poised for investment by other companies who wish to enter the Andean and Caribbean markets due to its financial stability and convenient location.

Domestically, home users are increasing their interaction with computers.  Deregulation has encouraged the Internet explosion through the creation of more telephony providers as well as allowing foreign companies to partner with existing Colombian nationals.  Through these foreign influences, companies such as Compuserve have been able to enter the Colombian market with its established product, much to the delight of consumers.

 


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Author: Heather Batyski
Last Update: December 18, 1998