ICTs and Enterprises in Developing Countries

Published in 2001, this 38-page document explores the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the development of small enterprises in developing countries. The authors consider the conditions that must be met for this development to proceed, including the securing of connectivity; the establishment of a legal framework; and the clarification of the roles of the government and the private sector in developing e-governance and e-business. Evidence is presented to support the claim that the private sector can install the required infrastructure quickly if the right incentives are in place. The point is made that ICTs can be made available even to relatively poor people in economically developing countries. The authors conclude that securing this access will, in turn, bolster the development of small industries in those countries.