Practical Insights on Thought Leadership for ICT4D Projects

10 ICT4D Leaders

Thought Leadership in ICT4D

ICTworks authors provide innovative and strategic thinking on the use of technology to support development goals and address social and economic challenges in developing countries.  Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the field.

ICTworks thought leaders have a deep understanding of the social, economic, and political contexts in which they work, and are able to use this understanding to identify opportunities for using technology to address development challenges. They are also able to see beyond the immediate technical issues to consider the broader implications of technology use, and are able to communicate their insights and ideas effectively to diverse audiences.

Thought leadership includes research, writing, speaking at conferences and events, and advising policy makers and development organizations on the use of technology for development. It is an important role that helps to shape the direction of the field and ensure that technology is used in a way that is effective, sustainable, and benefits the most people.

What Do Tanzanians Think About Drones? Now We Know

What Do Tanzanians Think About Drones? Now We Know

Published on: Feb 22 2016 by Guest Writer - 1 Comment
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) could become an important tool for international development. Also known as drones, UAVs are aircraft that can be piloted remotely...
TRAI to India’s Poor: Let Them Eat Cake

TRAI to India’s Poor: Let Them Eat Cake

Published on: Feb 09 2016 by Wayan Vota - 25 Comments
India’s digital elite is rejoicing with the news that the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has officially banned zero-rating, where telecommunications...
Recommendations for Foreign Assistance in the Digital Age

Recommendations for Foreign Assistance in the Digital Age

Published on: Feb 01 2016 by Guest Writer - Comments Off on Recommendations for Foreign Assistance in the Digital Age
In the past two decades alone, advances in mobile technology and digital connectivity have completely revolutionized how we interact with the world around us....
Please RSVP Now: How Can We Use IoT for Development?

Please RSVP Now: How Can We Use IoT for Development?

Published on: Jan 20 2016 by Wayan Vota - Comments Off on Please RSVP Now: How Can We Use IoT for Development?
After more than a decade of discussion and anticipation, the Internet of Things is now firmly on its way. But don’t let the name fool you, the “Internet of...
Be Honest: You Hate Free Basics Because It’s Facebook

Be Honest: You Hate Free Basics Because It’s Facebook

Published on: Jan 14 2016 by Wayan Vota - 34 Comments
Yes, it is true. You don’t like Free Basics simply because it is a Facebook initiative. You may feel the need to hide your anger behind flowery language...
Please RSVP Now for Digital Development: From Principle to Practice

Please RSVP Now for Digital Development: From Principle to Practice

Published on: Jan 12 2016 by Wayan Vota - Comments Off on Please RSVP Now for Digital Development: From Principle to Practice
“The Principles for Digital Development represent a commitment not only to innovation, but sustainable results,” said USAID Administrator Dr. Rajiv Shah in...
When the First Step is a Failure…

When the First Step is a Failure…

Published on: Dec 14 2015 by Wayan Vota - 1 Comment
Last Thursday night, we had the 5th Annual Fail Festival DC, and by the tweets and photos it was an amazing event. Woven into the fun were several strong lessons...
The Digital Divide Will Not Be Bridged By Business Models Alone

The Digital Divide Will Not Be Bridged By Business Models Alone

Published on: Dec 07 2015 by Guest Writer - 1 Comment
Reading through “To Really Help the Global Poor, Create Technology They’ll Pay For” in the Harvard Business Review, I was conflicted by the main point...
How Can We Fix the Facebook Safety Check Bias?

How Can We Fix the Facebook Safety Check Bias?

Published on: Nov 15 2015 by Wayan Vota - 6 Comments
In reaction to Friday’s tragedy in Paris, Facebook activated its Safety Check feature for the first time for a man-made disaster. While I am excited about...
We Are Not Alone: Silicon Valley is Donor Driven Development Too

We Are Not Alone: Silicon Valley is Donor Driven Development Too

Published on: Oct 14 2015 by Wayan Vota - 11 Comments
WeWork, the hot co-working space that features exposed brick, shiny desks, and free beer, has two locations in my office building. Both are beautiful and I only...