{"id":19,"date":"2026-03-27T14:55:06","date_gmt":"2026-03-27T12:55:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/?page_id=19"},"modified":"2026-04-02T11:41:48","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T08:41:48","slug":"digi-citizen","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/digi-citizen\/","title":{"rendered":"DIGI CITIZEN"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kela\u2019s services are often invisible in everyday life for those who are employed, yet they form an important safety net.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even though I work full-time, I rely on Kela\u2019s services, particularly when it comes to health and securing the basic conditions of daily life. In case of illness, Kela provides essential support through sickness allowance if my ability to work is temporarily reduced. In addition, reimbursements for medication costs are a concrete and regular way these services appear in my everyday life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Life situations can change unexpectedly, and it is precisely in these moments that Kela\u2019s role becomes even more significant. For example, if I were to become unemployed, start studying, or experience a drop in income, Kela\u2019s benefits would provide an important financial safety net.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kela\u2019s role is therefore not limited to temporary support situations; rather, it functions as a continuous source of security throughout different stages of life. Even if the services are not needed on a daily basis, their existence brings a sense of security and predictability to an ever-changing everyday life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I have obtained a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which I applied for a few years ago before my first trip abroad in Europe. The card serves as a precaution in case I unexpectedly fall ill while traveling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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OmaKanta<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I can access my personal health data through OmaKanta, Finland\u2019s official online health record service. I log in using secure identification, usually with my online banking credentials or a mobile ID.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once logged in, I can view my medical records, prescriptions, laboratory results, and other health-related information in one place. The service is easy to use and available at any time, which makes checking my own data convenient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, my occupational health care is provided by Pihlajalinna, where I can book appointments online or through a mobile application. I can also review my laboratory results and medical records through the service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Keva<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keva is a central part of the Finnish social security system, especially from the perspective of those working in the public sector. It acts as the pension insurer for public sector employees and ensures that pensions are accrued and paid on time to those working, for example, in municipalities, wellbeing services counties, the state, or the church.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keva grants and pays different types of pensions, such as old-age and disability pensions, but its role is not limited to retirement. It is also involved during working life by supporting work ability and well-being at work through rehabilitation and preventive services. The aim is to help people continue working as long as possible and in good health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In my own case, Keva\u2019s services become particularly concrete through its pension calculator. It did not calculate a pension for me at the age of 63, as my earliest possible retirement age is 67 years and 3 months. At that point, my pension would be approximately \u20ac3,050 per month. If I continue working slightly longer, for example until the age of 68, my pension would increase to around \u20ac3,200 per month. This clearly illustrates how the length of one\u2019s career directly affects future income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, Keva is responsible for investing pension funds to ensure that future pensions can be secured in a sustainable way. This makes it an important actor also from an economic perspective, even if its impact on an individual\u2019s daily life is not always visible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For many public sector employees, Keva operates quietly in the background, but its importance becomes more evident at key turning points in life. If work ability declines or when a career comes to an end with retirement, Keva\u2019s role becomes tangible. It provides security and predictability in situations where one\u2019s livelihood is no longer based on paid work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Booking.com<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Digital commerce has transformed the way we search for and book services, and especially in the travel sector, online platforms such as Booking.com have taken on a central role. But how reliable are these services, and do they provide consumers with enough information to support decision-making?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Booking.com offers users an easy and fast way to compare accommodation options from around the world. In one place, users can find hotels, apartments, and other types of accommodation, along with a wealth of information, including photos, customer reviews, location details, and service descriptions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, an abundance of information does not always mean clarity. Booking and cancellation terms can be complex, and comparing different options requires careful attention. Prices can vary significantly depending on timing, availability, and selected conditions. From a consumer\u2019s perspective, this means that decisions should not be based solely on the displayed price; instead, all details should be reviewed carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When compared to local service providers, such as booking directly through hotel websites, the situation changes somewhat. When booking directly, information is often clearer and customer service more straightforward, as there are no intermediaries involved. In some cases, direct bookings may also offer additional benefits, such as more flexible terms or loyalty rewards. However, this kind of comparison requires more effort, and not all options are visible at a glance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In terms of pricing, digital platforms are not always the cheapest option. Although Booking.com often offers competitive prices, the same accommodation may sometimes be found at a lower price directly on the provider\u2019s own website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From a reliability standpoint, Booking.com is a well-known and widely used service that millions of people trust every day. Nevertheless, it is not without its challenges. Customer service situations can sometimes be complex, and resolving issues is not always straightforward. In recent years, there have also been various scam attempts, such as phishing messages, which require users to remain vigilant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overall, Booking.com is an effective and useful tool for searching and comparing accommodation, but it should not be relied on as the only source of information. The best outcome is achieved by combining the broad overview offered by digital platforms with the direct information provided by local service providers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Verkkokauppa.com<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Digital commerce has significantly transformed consumer purchasing behavior, and one key player in Finland is Verkkokauppa.com. It provides a good example of how online retail differs from traditional brick-and-mortar stores, particularly in terms of pricing, the amount of information available, and reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of Verkkokauppa.com\u2019s greatest strengths is its wide product selection and ease of use. In one place, consumers can compare hundreds of products, review technical specifications, read customer reviews, and check real-time availability. This makes the purchasing process fast and efficient, especially when the customer knows what they are looking for. At the same time, the service functions as a kind of digital catalog, allowing different options to be easily compared side by side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In terms of pricing, online stores are often competitive. Verkkokauppa.com can frequently offer lower prices than local stores, partly due to lower operating costs. On the other hand, local shops have their own strengths: personal service, the ability to see and try products before purchase, and direct interaction with sales staff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although Verkkokauppa.com provides a large amount of information, more information does not always mean greater clarity. Product descriptions and technical details can be extensive, requiring consumers to compare options critically. In addition, customer reviews often focus on the product itself and may not provide a complete picture of aspects such as delivery or customer service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From a reliability perspective, Verkkokauppa.com is a well-established and widely recognized company in Finland. It has been operating for a long time and has a large customer base, which increases trust in the service. However, as with many large online retailers, user experiences vary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overall, Verkkokauppa.com is a reliable and functional online store that offers consumers a wide range of options and competitive prices. However, consumers benefit most when they compare prices and information with other retailers as well before making a purchase decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

KeyAqua in Water Supply \u2013 A Digital Tool Supporting Daily Work<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From my own field, water supply, a good example of a key digital application is KeyAqua. I chose this service because it is widely used in water utilities and municipalities, and it directly supports both daily operations and long-term planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

KeyAqua is a browser-based system that enables the documentation, management, and analysis of water supply networks. It brings together all essential information\u2014such as water distribution and sewer networks, customers, meters, and equipment\u2014into a single view. This makes it a highly important tool, especially in municipal environments where large amounts of data must be kept accurate and up to date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In practical work, KeyAqua is most visible through its map-based interface. It allows users to examine network structures, locate pipes and equipment, and analyze network condition and rehabilitation needs. In addition, the system supports functions such as hydraulic modeling, leak detection, and network simulation, which help in preparing for disruptions and improving system reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From my own experience, KeyAqua is particularly useful because all information is centralized in one place. Previously, data could be scattered across paper maps and multiple systems, but now network information, maintenance history, and plans are easily accessible within a single platform. This speeds up work and reduces the risk of errors. Furthermore, real-time data and the ability to use the system in the field via mobile devices significantly improve efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

KeyAqua also supports decision-making. Its analytical tools help evaluate where investments should be directed and how network condition can be improved over the long term. This makes it an essential tool not only for daily maintenance but also for strategic planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Digitalization and the Digital Divide<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Digitalization has made everyday life easier in many ways, but at the same time it has introduced a new challenge: the digital divide. Not everyone uses or is able to use digital services, and this can lead to significant difficulties in daily life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As more and more services\u2014such as banking, healthcare, and public services\u2014move online, managing everyday tasks becomes harder without digital skills. Services may remain unused, or handling them may require more time, effort, and often money. At the same time, people may miss out on better prices and up-to-date information, which are largely available digitally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The digital divide is not just a technical issue, but also a social one. It can increase inequality, reduce participation, and even lead to social exclusion. In addition, limited digital skills can expose individuals to scams if services are used without sufficient understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ultimately, the issue is about equality: how to ensure that everyone can keep up in a society where an increasing part of everyday life takes place online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Digital Competence Test<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Digitalization is part of everyday life and working life, but we rarely stop to reflect on our own skills. I took a Digital Competence Test, which provided a surprisingly clear picture of my strengths and areas for development in the digital world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Based on the results, my overall profile is quite balanced. My strengths are particularly in security, communication, and information handling. For example, my skills related to cybersecurity and data protection are at a good level, which is essential in today\u2019s digital environment. I know how to act safely online and understand the associated risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I also perform well in communication. Digital tools such as email and collaboration platforms are a natural part of my daily work, and working with others is efficient. In addition, my critical thinking stands out, especially in evaluating information\u2014I do not take everything at face value but assess sources and content critically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, my clearest area for development is digital creation. The results show that while I use various digital tools, I do not make much use of them for content creation, automation, or improving processes. This is especially visible in automation skills, which are still at a relatively low level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This highlights that my next step in digital development is not about strengthening basic skills, but about becoming a more active creator. Instead of just using existing tools, I could learn to use them more effectively\u2014for example, by automating tasks or producing content that also benefits others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In summary, I am a capable digital user with a strong foundation, but with clear potential for further growth. Digital competence is not only about technical skills, but also about the ability to apply, develop, and improve one\u2019s way of working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Self-Assessment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through these tasks, I have gained a better understanding of how digital services, such as Kela, OmaKanta, and online stores, are part of everyday life and working life. I have also learned to evaluate the reliability of services, compare prices, and critically assess information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The broader impacts of digitalization, such as the digital divide, have become clearer, and I better understand the importance of equality and accessibility. The Digital Competence Test helped me identify my strengths (critical thinking, communication, and security) as well as my areas for development (content creation and automation).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, I have improved my ability to produce written content and communicate clearly in English. Overall, I have strengthened my digital competence and gained a clear direction for further development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

I commented on Tarja\u2019s<\/a> , Tiina\u2019s<\/a> and Kumar\u2019s<\/a> blogs.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela) Kela\u2019s services are often invisible in everyday life for those who are employed, yet they form an important safety net. Even though I work full-time, I rely on Kela\u2019s services, particularly when it comes… Continue Reading →<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13748,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":3,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13748"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":57,"href":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19\/revisions\/57"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogi.savonia.fi\/mhartikainen\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}