ABSTRACT
Microcomputers are already finding many and varied applications in developing countries. This chapter discusses the engineering aspect of introducing microcomputer technology in developing countries. In developing countries, the government tends to be the largest employer and the single most authoritative national institution. As well as being important enough to require a national policy, any guidelines must be seen as coming directly from the government for them to be effective. The major issues raised by introducing computer technology in developing countries may be divided into four broad categories: government policy and management; acquisition of microcomputer technology; use and application of the technology; and human-resource development. The current number of microcomputer users in developing countries does not constitute a sufficient economic incentive for manufacturers in industrialized countries to focus on the special needs of these markets. In addition, developing countries in general have made little or no engineering-research effort to produce microcomputers optimized for local consumption.
