Question 57

Usability

To successfully expand globally, the company must address the usability stage of the digital divide, as it pertains to the target population's ability to effectively operate technology despite having access to it. This stage involves the skills and knowledge necessary to utilize digital tools efficiently.

A) Geographic

The geographic stage of the digital divide refers to the differences in access to technology based on location. While this is an important consideration for global expansion, the context of the question specifies that the population has full access to computers and the internet, making this option irrelevant.

B) Economic

The economic stage involves disparities in technology access due to financial constraints. However, since the population in question already has access to technology, this stage does not apply to the company's challenge of expanding globally.

C) Usability

Usability is the correct answer, as it addresses the population's lack of skills to effectively use the technology they have access to. Without improving usability, the company cannot ensure that the intended audience can engage with their products or services successfully.

D) Empowerment

The empowerment stage focuses on enabling individuals to use technology to improve their lives. While it is related to building confidence and skills, the immediate issue highlighted in the question is the actual ability to operate technology, which falls more directly under usability.

Conclusion

The usability stage is critical for the company’s global expansion as it directly addresses the skills gap that prevents the target population from effectively using available technology. Other stages, such as geographic and economic, are not applicable since the population has access. Therefore, enhancing usability is essential for the success of the company's global strategy.