Paper

ICT-Enabled Networks, Public Sector Performance and The Development of Information and Communication Technologies

Can information and communications technology help change the public sector?
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This paper discusses the development of information and communication technology (ICT) and ICT-enabled networks. It finds that decentralization, cooperation and rapid response are the key attributes of ICT-enabled network that helps increase productivity and institutional effectiveness of the public sector.

The paper suggests strategic alliances between different organizations and the government to enable modernization and universalization of the ICT use. It puts forth the role of each type of agency:

State:

  • Fosters competition and provides an effective regulatory framework;
  • Provides affordable subsidies for expansion of connectivity to rural areas;
  • Develops applications to help combat poverty and redress inequality.

Private enterprises invest risk capital and:

  • Develop infrastructure;
  • Innovate technology;
  • Operate complex telecommunications;

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs):

  • Innovators of design and implementation;
  • Play an important advocacy role to support equal opportunity for marginalized;
  • The paper also provides evidences of the success of ICT in developing nations, from three sample applications:
    • Rural tele-center,
    • School-based tele-centers,
  • Business development services online in support of microenterprise development.

Finally, the paper points to:

  • Growing recognition by several countries of the importance of government leadership and inter-agency cooperation in implementing e-government programs;
  • The need of careful analysis of best practices and benchmarks;
  • Less awareness of the investment risks in ICT.

About this Publication

By Proenza, F. J.
Published