Background and rationale:
More than half a century after their invention, computers have developed through fusion with networking technology to yield information and communication systems processing almost all information arising in the real world. As an indispensable social infrastructure that supports civil life as well as socio-economic activities, these systems have greatly contributed to the further advancement of science and technology and the creation of new cultures. In view of such circumstances, the enhancement of reliability and security of information and communication systems is becoming increasingly important in ensuring the safety and security of society and convenience in daily life. Such new issues need to be tackled in order to develop and advance our knowledge-based society on a global scale. Moreover, it is hoped that information and communications technologies, both in the software and hardware aspects, will be further developed and widely disseminated.

Achievement eligible:
The 2011 Japan Prize will be awarded to honor achievements that bring about remarkable progress in science and technology in the field of "information and communications," and make outstanding contributions to society by improving the safety and convenience of the lives of people through the creation of new industries, and improvement in productivity among other innovations.