National Software Strategy for Scotland : Executive Summary

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4 Strategy

4.1 We believe there is a need for a realignment of Scottish industry to better exploit global opportunities and realise the full potential within Scotland. The strategy we propose is a Scottish solution to a Scottish situation which builds primarily on evidence from Scottish industry and partners, and experience of other more successful comparator regions. In particular the proposed strategy addresses the need:

If not addressed, we re-emphasise that growth and employment will be constrained.

4.2 In developing the strategy with partners and stakeholders we considered a range of strategic options. We concluded that certain of these options are either unrealistic or fail to realise the full potential of Scotland. Our key strategic thrusts are;

4.3 Productisation will increase the geographic reach of Scottish firms, increase value added and shift the industry away from a commoditised future in services. Increased internationalisation is essential to more fully engage with global opportunities, maximise business potential and better align with industry trends. Innovation is a key characteristic within software, and is concerned with both increasing the numbers of start-ups, their survival and indeed shifting the profile of existing firms. Our proposed initiatives on infrastructure focus on entrepreneurship and new firm formation, including access to specialised skills and expertise, and their development.

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