Exploring the Link between ICT and Development in the Context of Developing Countries: A Literature Review. Issue 1 (5th December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thapa, Devinder; Sæbø, Øystein
• Is Part Of: Electronic journal on information systems in developing countries. Volume 64:Issue 1(2014)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 15
• Publication Date: 2017-12-05
• Subjects: ICT4D -- developing countries -- capability approach -- literature review; Management information systems -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Information technology -- Economic aspects -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Information technology -- Social aspects -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; High technology industries -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Developing countries -- Economic conditions; Economic history; High technology industries; Information technology -- Economic aspects; Information technology -- Social aspects; Management information systems; Developing countries; Periodicals; 658.4
• DOI: 10.1002/j.1681-4835.2014.tb00454.x
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1681-4835

Abstract

Abstract: The article contributes to the ongoing discussion on relating information and communication technology (ICT) to development (D). The quest to relate ICT to D is a topic of open deliberation and critical scrutiny in ICT4D research communities. To enhance the understanding in this regard, we conducted a literature review. The review examines 80 articles to identify various development theories and the role of technologies in the development process. While scanning the articles, Sen's capability approach (CA) emerged as a suitable framework with which to explore the link between ICT and D. To show the relevance of the link, we used the CA as a guiding framework, and reanalyzed ten empirical case studies focusing on projects in remote and rural areas. Furthermore, the article suggests six gaps in the current research, and, accordingly, six areas for future research.