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Foresight study for addressing megatrends in information and communication technology (ICT)

Author

Listed:
  • Anastasios Andronikidis

    (University of Western Macedonia)

  • Amalia Kouskoura

    (University of Western Macedonia)

  • Eleni Kalliontzi

    (University of Western Macedonia)

  • Ioannis Bakouros

    (University of Western Macedonia)

Abstract

Information and communications technology (ICT) encompasses the infrastructure and components that enable modern computing. In the context of Europe, the adoption of cutting-edge ICT is rapidly accelerating competitiveness, innovation, and job creation. However, this progress depends on a skilled workforce capable of implementing these advanced technologies effectively. This study aims to explore current ICT trends while addressing the digital skills gap in Southern Europe. The research focused on three countries: Greece, Cyprus, and Bulgaria. To gather relevant insights, two rounds of the Delphi technique were employed to reach a consensus on the most crucial digital skills shaping the future. The findings reveal a rapidly evolving landscape of digital competencies essential for navigating the transformative era of advanced ICT technologies. The study highlights emerging megatrends in the ICT sector, such as AI integration, cybersecurity challenges, and the shift toward 5G, underscoring the need for continuous upskilling to remain competitive in the global market. As ICT continues to evolve, it is clear that developing a skilled workforce will be vital to unlocking the potential of these technologies in Southern Europe.

Suggested Citation

  • Anastasios Andronikidis & Amalia Kouskoura & Eleni Kalliontzi & Ioannis Bakouros, 2025. "Foresight study for addressing megatrends in information and communication technology (ICT)," Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Springer, vol. 14(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:joiaen:v:14:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1186_s13731-025-00466-z
    DOI: 10.1186/s13731-025-00466-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nasser Alhamar Alkathiri & Foued Ben Said & Natanya Meyer & Mohammad Soliman, 2024. "Knowledge management and sustainable entrepreneurship: a bibliometric overview and research agenda," Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Springer, vol. 13(1), pages 1-24, December.
    2. Rethabile Masenyetse & Malefu Manamathela, 2023. "Firm growth, exporting and information communication technology (ICT) in Southern Africa," Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Springer, vol. 12(1), pages 1-12, December.
    3. Gianluca Misuraca & Giulio Pasi & Fabienne Abadie & Csaba Kucsera & Marco Virginillo, 2017. "Exploring the role of ICT-Enabled Social Innovation to support the modernisation of EU Social Protection Systems: findings and insights from analysis of case studies in fourteen Member States," JRC Research Reports JRC106484, Joint Research Centre.
    4. Kraus, Sascha & Durst, Susanne & Ferreira, João J. & Veiga, Pedro & Kailer, Norbert & Weinmann, Alexandra, 2022. "Digital transformation in business and management research: An overview of the current status quo," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 63(C).
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