Understanding ICT-based business models in developing countries. (1st September 2004)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Osterwalder, Alexander
• Is Part Of: International journal of information technology and management. Volume 3:Number 2-4(2004)
• Page Start: 333
• Page End: 348
• Publication Date: 2004-09-01
• Subjects: business models -- electronic business -- developing countries -- SMEs -- small and medium-sized enterprises -- business model handbook -- Grameen phone -- Village Phone Program -- micro enterprises -- ICT -- information technology -- communications -- Bangladesh -- knowledge transfer; Management information systems -- Periodicals; Information technology -- Periodicals; Management -- Data processing -- Periodicals; 658.403805
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1461-4111

Abstract

It is an essential issue to show how small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and micro enterprises in developing countries can profit from the opportunities presented through the use of information and communication technologies ICTs. This fosters development and helps narrowing the digital divide. The paper presents a business model framework that helps analysing ICT-based business models and illustrates it through the Village Phone Program of the telecommunication operator Grameen Phone in Bangladesh. Furthermore, the paper proposes a so-called business model handbook to improve knowledge transfer related to ICT-based business models.