An account is given of the Telmo Information Network project which aims to develop Finland's public information network so that most companies and about half Finland's households will be using it by the end of the century. Basic services of the information network will be extended to wider use including electronic mail, nationwide telephone catalogue and electronic markets. Forms of co-operation and common definitions will be created for transaction services such as administration, seat reservations as well as company, consumer, bank and insurance services. Routine operations required by other services will be carried out in joint services of the system software. Government offices, institutes, commercial enterprises and municipalities are among those involved in the project which is directed by the Ministry of Transport and Communications. Funding is partly by public sources and partly by participation fees. A number of projects planned for the Telmo information network are listed including a general service catalogue, verification service and invoice service. Of particular interest is the opportunity being given to disabled people to participate in and influence projects connected with them.
Samenvatting