The components of an innovation ecosystem framework for Botswana's mobile applications. Issue 6 (7th May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nyamaka, Admore Tutsirayi; Botha, Adele; Van Biljon, Judy; Marais, Mario Alphonso
• Is Part Of: Electronic journal on information systems in developing countries. Volume 86:Issue 6(2020)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2020-05-07
• Subjects: ICT4D innovation ecosystem -- innovation ecosystem framework components -- mobile applications -- mobile applications for development; 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/isd2.12137
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1681-4835

Abstract

Abstract: The literature on information and communication technology comprises numerous studies on the role of mobile technologies in developing communities, including examples of innovative mobile applications which improve literacy and access to healthcare, banking and agricultural services. There is a growing understanding that sustainable development requires more than rational, scientific and technological means – it also requires a web of support from both social networks and business infrastructure. Innovation ecosystems consist of economic agents and relations, as well as non‐economic components such as technology, institutions, sociological interactions and culture, which facilitate idea‐making, innovation and the diffusion of such innovations. There is, as yet, no evidence‐based innovation ecosystem conceptualisation to describe the situation in Botswana. This study aims to identify and present the essential components of a mobile application innovation ecosystem, by using Design Science Research methodology and adopting a pragmatic research approach which draws on two theoretical streams: the Computing, Connectivity, Content and Capacity (4Cs) framework for information and communications technology, and a systems theory‐based Triple Helix Model of Innovation. In addition to making a theoretical contribution towards understanding information and communications technology for development innovation frameworks, the study provides practical recommendations in respect of supporting mobile application innovations in Botswana.