Editorial - 14-7

Look what's happening to the city so many Canadians love to hate. Historically burdened with a litany of pejorative nicknames associated with its status as the seat of political power, Ottawa is redefining its image into that of a technology powerhouse (see lead article). At the core of that transformation is the optical revolution that's about to sweep the global economy, driving our transition to a knowledge-based society and economy.

Telecommunications is the first sector to feel the true force of recent breakthroughs in optical research, and it's also the foundation of Ottawa's high-technology sector. With a wide range of government, business and academic players in the region, they're now being bound together to position the region as a global competitive force to be reckoned with.

New institutes, associations and governance structures are appearing to exploit Ottawa's technology strengths. The glue holding them together is research and development, and by extension the knowledge workers that create new inventions, strategize for the future and train the next generation.

Telecommunications is not the only strength Ottawa has in its favour, as a recent report makes clear. Microelectronics, life science, software and others also have a strong presence, and are contributing to the overall strength of the region.

With the cluster strategy now firmly in vogue, Ottawa and other major centres have an opportunity to excel, prosper and spread the wealth. All participants must ensure that the commitment and resources required for success are adequate and properly targeted.

Mark Henderson, Managing Editor