IT Use in the Utilities of Ukraine, Armenia and Georgia

Abstract

This paper examines the use of information technology in the electric and gas utilities of Ukraine, Armenia, and Georgia. Data was gathered through the performance of Year 2000 risk assessments, small business visits, document research, and academic visits between 1999 and 2001. Data was analyzed by comparing IT usage in Ukraine, Armenia, and Georgia to that in the United States. Overall IT usage was found to be low, at about the level of the United States in the 1970s. Financial difficulties and managerial issues prevent the acquisition and implementation of IT. The electrical supply itself is insufficient to support a digital economy because of poor power quality and unreliable power sources and will require large investments to correct.