Reason for Not Using the Internet: Qualitative Results


“We have an old Mac, we tried to get Internet on it, but it is just too old so we didn’t bother.”
      (Winnipeg, far non-user)

“The few times I have used it [the Internet] I have been amazed by it. It is just not something that I can fit into my budget right now.”
      (Winnipeg, near non-user)

“I know what is going on the Internet, what is available. I know there are advantages to it if you know how to use it. It is just too expensive to get a computer. They go out of date over night.”
      (Winnipeg, far non-user)

“My sister is very “techie”. She thought I was stuck in the dinosaur age so she bought me a computer.”
      (Moncton, new user)

“I wanted a Playstation, but my wife said if I want to play games, we might as well be able to do something else with it.”
      (Moncton, new user)

“You go into the library and there are always huge line-ups for the computers, it seems like people are getting all clogged up trying to get on the computer for 15 minutes.”
      (Winnipeg, far non-user)

Quantitative data indicates most frequently named reasons for not using the Internet include no computer/computer too old and a lack of interest or need. To a lesser extent, non-users also say they are not comfortable with technology or that the Internet is not safe.

During focus groups discussion, the same barriers surfaced as the reasons for not using the Internet. Probing on these issues allowed for a more in-depth understanding of these reasons for remaining offline.

No Computer/Computer Too Old

Generally, many younger participants cited not having a home computer as the main reason they did not use the Internet. And in fact, when asked, many “new users” reported that the reason they recently started using the Internet (or using it more regularly) is because they now have a home computer.

When examining the issue more closely, it became clear that many did not have a personal computer because they could not afford it or could not justify the expense at this time. Despite the fact that the cost of computers is down sharply from even a few years ago, it was generally perceived that buying a computer and subscribing to Internet access is a costly endeavour.

Many non-users indicating lack of a PC as the main reason for not using the Internet reported they expect to buy a computer and start using the Internet, either when they have more disposable income or when their children start school. In fact, a child’s need for the Internet for schoolwork is a strong incentive for buying a computer.

While many of those without a home computer were aware that they could access the Internet in a public location, it was felt that public access could not adequately meet their own or their family’s needs and held little appeal.