DIGITAL DIVIDE DATA: Bridging the Gap

When Jeremy Hockenstein visited Cambodia he was inspired by the amount of roadside internet cafes crowded with youngsters trying to learn English. This experience made him realize that new technology and globalization could better this impoverished country. Jeremy thought he could help willing Cambodians in search of a better life by offering them a chance they were unlikely to receive from anyone else. Hockenstein and four of his friends journeyed to Cambodia in 2001 to found Digital Divide Data, a non-profit organization that "provides high-quality, cost-effective data entry and digitization services." At the same time Digital Divide Data (DDD) "provides for the social, human, and economic development" of the Cambodian staff they employ. DDD pays their employees about $2.25 a day, an almost non-existent number to us, but a salary between two and three times what most Cambodians make. Even in the midst of all the social and economic outreach DDD is committed to, chaos can erupt. A few years ago the Boston Globe published an article accusing DDD of using cheap, third world labor to increase their profits. In order to combat misconceptions of the organizations purpose, Hockenstein invites reporters to check out DDD for themselves. Upon a thorough tour of the facilities people understand what this company is really all about: reciprocity. While DDD employs people in safe environments that nurture healthy living and educational pursuits, their clients get the benefit of knowing they're giving back to the global economy while at the same time receiving a needed digital entry service. This is a company that knows how to generate profits and build cultural capitol for employees and clients alike - hats off to Digital Divide Data for breaking into the market with an innovative idea that works.