Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explains what "information and communication technology for development" (ICT4D) is by breaking it down into its constituent parts and discusses and explains each one; then showing how this determines the relation between information and communication technology (ICTs) and development. It explores the underlying layers and components that need to be put in place for ICT4D to work: technology, people, institutions and money. The book reviews how best to implement ICT4D from strategy through design and roll-out and adoption and use to monitoring and evaluation. It analyzes the role ICTs play in the delivery of specific international development goals. The book discusses economic growth at micro, meso and macro levels. It looks at poverty eradication and the livelihoods of those on the lowest incomes. The book considers social development; specifically health and education including a discussion of capabilities development.