IT for the informal sector in developing countries: A broader perspective. Issue 3 (10th May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seetharaman, Priya; Cunha, Maria Alexandra; Effah, John
• Other Names: Seetharaman Priya guestEditor.; Cunha Maria Alexandra guestEditor.; Effah John guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Electronic journal on information systems in developing countries. Volume 85:Issue 3(2019)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2019-05-10
• Subjects: 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/isd2.12093
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1681-4835

Abstract

Abstract: Although the informal sector's presence in the developed world is by no means meagre, the themes and issues related to information technology (IT) for this sector in the developing country contexts seem stark and deeply contrasted with those relating to the informal sector in developed countries. Solutions which attempt to exploit the potential of IT for the informal sector have thus far been either knee‐jerk, ad‐hoc, or have mimicked those targeted at the formal sector. However, technology tools available today can accelerate, catalyze, and go beyond the conventional straight‐jacketed technology, economic, and policy solutions for the informal sector. The papers in this special issue reflect this theme and attempt to present a glimpse of the possibilities for achieving and the challenges in effecting such solutions.