Article

Ways to Access Information Have Evolved

28 Sep,2022 - Yangon | 1 mins read

Author: Ahmad Abdallah, Chief Operating Officer of ATOM

Only when information is accessible to everyone can we move towards a better society. As a provider of essential telecommunications services, ATOM keeps its word to ensure access to the best of its ability in Myanmar while developing and operating a modern network in a sustainable and socially responsible way. Today is International Day for Universal Access to Information, so it makes it even more crucial to foster this message.

The way we access information has evolved over time, and here’s how:

Then

• Access information through mass media, other traditional mediums like word of mouth & social connections
• Limited audience
• Delayed flow of information

Now

• Primarily access information through the internet - online channels & social media 
• More extensive reach
• Fast flow of information

Advantages and consequences of accessing information in Digital age

Advantages

• Can fact check in a timely manner
• Easier to pass & share information to larger audience
• Info can be accessed through digital gadgets like mobile phones
• Supports development, encourages self-sufficiency, participation, & collaboration
• Transparency

Consequences

• More disinformation & fake news
• Data protection & privacy becomes a bigger issue
• Proper gadget, infrastructure, & facilities may not be readily available for everyone

Digital Information Trends

• Social Media continues to boom 
• New platforms emerge - podcasts, short content videos, streaming, etc.
• Emerging social media trends beyond just messages and posts, such as edutainment, AR/VR shopping, communication, and gaming.