Elements of correlation analysis in the assessment of digital inequality of some regions of Russia

Abstract

Subject: specific socio-economic relations mediating the processes of digital inequality of the regions of the Siberian Federal District in the context of correlation analysis. The goal of the research: conducting a comprehensive assessment and identifying the correlation between digitalization ratings and indicators of socio-economic development of Russian regions (according to the Siberian Federal District) in order to substantiate an effective mechanism for smoothing the regional level of digital inequality. The methodology is based on the principles, methods and approaches of correlation analysis, statistical methods of information processing, as well as on the analysis of secondary sources of information about the socio-economic situation of the region and the level of development of information and communication technologies in it. Results. The data on the presence of digital inequality in the regions of the Siberian Federal District were updated. The relationship between the level of development of information and communication technologies and the socio-economic situation of the territories is revealed, which determines the important role of eliminating the digital inequality in improving the economic security of the regions. The importance of increasing the ICT budgets of the regions of the Siberian Federal District is grounded. The study showed that successful experience in overcoming the digital divide includes measures aimed at: increasing the availability of ICT, increasing the penetration rate of digital services, increasing the share of competent ICT specialists, which contributes to the sustainable economic development of the subject of the Federation. Conclusions: the use of elements of correlation analysis makes it possible to identify the cause-and-effect relationships of regional digital inequality, the task in conditions of significant territorial fragmentation and differentiation of the socio-economic situation of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. Programs to bridge the digital divide should be backed by an appropriate mechanism to ensure the construction of network infrastructure and the penetration of the digital space into remote areas and rural areas, in parallel with the improvement of the general digital literacy of the population. As practice shows, the mechanism of leveling, smoothing the level of digital inequality inevitably entails an increase in economic activity, an increase in the economic security of regions, an increase in their competitiveness in the local, all-Russian and world markets.