Does IT have a role to play in revival?

 　March 11, 2011. A day which called for a change in IT policy. Very shortly after the earthquake, I saw that, rather than “recovery,” what was needed was a more long term “revival,” and that rather than reviving IT, it was important to direct our effort towards using IT as a tool in the larger revival. In line with this, I published three suggestions. 
1. Plan to re-establish networks.
The net played an active role post-disaster. The power and influence of packet transmission was definitively demonstrated for the first time. Going forward we will need a new media environment. Just as US has advanced their research and development in the IT field as they pursue preparedness for nuclear war, Japan should conduct research and development into methods of successfully facing natural disasters, and in doing so build a stronger nation. 
2. Transmit information abroad.
Immediately after the earthquake, reports in the international media praising Japan for its calm and resolution were in the forefront. However, the response to the incident at the nuclear reactor that followed caused Japan’s image to suffer. Let’s make sure we send accurate information. 
3. Promote increased use of information technology.
Although it is said that people were able to make use of the net in the disaster area, usage among the elderly is very low. We must address the disparity in information distribution, and promote information literacy through a comprehensive educational program. This policy is necessary not only for the areas affected by the disaster, but nationwide. 

　This is just one example. At the time, many different individuals were entertaining a wide variety of suggestions. I wanted to create a place for such people. With this in mind, immediately after the earthquake, I held the “IT revival roundtable” conference at Keio University. Approximately 50 people participated in the roundtable, with backgrounds including politics, government, industry, the press, and academia. A proposal entitled “Provision and utilization of information technology is necessary for Japan’s revival. Let’s use all our efforts to make this possible,” was crafted, and entrusted to the political parties and to the current government. 
　However, this was criticized. The critics claimed that the discussion had not been at all adequate to the task. Because of this, I sponsored a 7-part web series covering 1) administration, 2) media, 3) transmission, 4) the social aspect, 5) volunteer, 6) politics, and 7) synthesis - putting it all together. I was the chair. 
　Each time the deep debate could be seen by all. “The decentralization of authority and transfer of power are necessary for revival. On the other hand, future disaster response efforts will require centralization of power. Government authorities which have been vertically divided must be consolidated. We ought to learn the lessons the earthquake has taught.” This opinion has left an impression on my memory.
　The IT Revival Conference has concluded for the time being. The party in power has changed once again. However, the road toward revival is but halfway traveled. We will continue to consider this problem as we move onwards.