What impact do new information and communication technologies (ICTs) have on people living in poverty in developing countries? Can ICTs make a real difference in the lives of the poor and thus enhance their well-being? Under what conditions can information technology empower poor communities? What are some of the challenges and pitfalls facing local communities in using technology innovations? How can we evaluate the impact that new technologies have on the well-being of poor communities?
This book tackles these questions by developing a new approach for evaluating the impact of ICT programs on poor people’s economic, human, and social development. It looks at the effects of new technologies on well-being in a holistic manner.
Key findings: