ABSTRACT
This chapter constitutes a preliminary examination of the dichotomy between promise and problem in the application of information technologies and, in particular, microcomputers to development. In order to think intelligently about microcomputers in foreign assistance one must consider the microcomputer in two larger frameworks: the framework of economic development and the framework of information technology. There are two fairly obvious implications. First, applications of information technologies should be driven by needs, not technologies, no matter how dazzling those technologies may be. Second, technical-assistance agencies must understand, in some practical detail, where and how information technologies can be applied to the problems of development; choose the appropriate technology; and implement programs so that the tremendous potential of the technologies can be realized. In formulating a foreign-assistance policy in communication technology, one must keep in mind the potentially harmful applications or effects as well as the intended benefits.
