In 2017 Matrix undertook a short study into the interface between technology and creativity, following one of the supporting recommendations from the 2016 Digital ICT report that “a report dedicated to the creative digital and content sector in Northern Ireland” should be produced.
There is a growing cluster of businesses in Northern Ireland who are creative and depend heavily on technology – particularly in the following areas:
- Film & TV
- Gaming & animation
- E-Learning
- Software/music
- Mobile/Web content
There is also a growing interest in graduates in gaming and related subjects from large banking and financial organisations who are increasingly aware that user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) play a vital role in business growth and customer retention.
Did you know…?
- Creative technology companies employ around 13,000 people in Northern Ireland – however there are around 44,000 people working in the wider NI creative economy, representing 5% of the total NI workforce.
- There is an extraordinary level of productivity within the creative tech sector – Gross Value Added (GVA) in the technology subsector of the creative industries in NI rose 60% 2009-2013, compared to 15% for the whole creative industries sector and 5% for all NI industries. This is a remarkable trend and one which indicates that creative technologies have the potential to play a major part in the NI economy.
The 2018 Matrix study identified a small but thriving sector with tremendous potential both for growth in its own right and in collaborating with other Northern Ireland technology industries to enhance their products and services.
It is clear that the sector has a unique set of characteristics and business behaviours and because of this, it is not currently being supported as effectively as it should be to maximise its potential. The good news is that small adjustments to the way government supports these businesses could help transform the sector.
Creative Technology News
Matrix will partner 2023 NI Science Festival
Matrix will partner with the NI Science Festival which, now in its ninth year, has grown to become the largest celebration of its kind on the island of Ireland and in its relatively short lifespan [...]
EmTech Europe’s Innovators Under 35 now open for nominations
Nominations are open now for EmTech Europe’s Innovators Under 35 Festival which is being held in Gaoth Dobhair, Donegal from 19th - 21st May. Innovators Under 35 Europe Festival 2021 presents an excellent opportunity to [...]
BEYOND2021 – Live from Belfast
MATRIX, the Northern Ireland Science Industry Panel is to sponsor the Beyond2021 Conference which is being held this year in a hybrid fashion, with live events taking place at Belfast’s Titanic Hotel. Now in its [...]
Research publications
Below is a selection of the reports used to research this project. If you would like to see all the Creative Technology related reports, please visit the library.
The impact of digital technology on arts and culture in the UK
An overview of the impact of digital technology on the arts and culture sector in the UK focusing on the uses of emerging digital technologies and the impact of COVID-19 on stakeholders.
Rise Women in Leadership Report
The Rise Women in Leadership Report is the first of its kind for the broadcast media technology sector and provides an in-depth insight with recommendations into how the industry can encourage women to reach their potential and succeed in leadership roles.
THE CREATECH REPORT 2021
THE CREATECH REPORT 2021 The UK has long been renowned as a shining light in the global tech ecosystem, and, equally, seen as a preeminent creative force in the world. Creativity and technology have, however, never been inextricable. [...]
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