In the past, a country's competitiveness was decided mostly by the productivity of its industries.

But many people say that in this era of computer networks and advanced information technology, national competitiveness will be decided by easy access to high-quality information -- data that go beyond improving economic productivity and help raise the quality of life. In Japan, the government and major companies now face the problem of utilizing their technology and information to meet consumer needs. In contrast, individuals and entrepreneurs are creating their own networks to suggest ways to maintain the nation's vitality and competitiveness.

In October, International Data Corp., a U.S.-based information technology research firm, released the Information Imperative Index, which it says is the world's first attempt to benchmark where nations stand in their ability to access, absorb and effectively take advantage of information and information technology. Based on 20 variables that make up the index, IDC, together with U.S.-based publisher World Times, ranked 55 nations that together occupy 97 percent of the world's gross domestic product. The United States topped the list, followed by Sweden and Denmark. Japan tied Germany for 12th.