Catalog

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p. 16 of 23 BACK | NEXT Executive Summary I. Introduction II. The Information Revolution III. Need for an ADB Strategic Approach for ICT IV. Strategic Thrusts V. Proposed Action Plan A. Undertake E-Readiness Assessment B. Integrate ICT Applications in ADB’s Activities C. Promote Partnerships D. Establish a Center for Learning, Information, Communication, and Knowledge for Asia and the Pacific VI. Implications for ADB

Toward E-Development in Asia and the Pacific: A Strategic Approach for Information and Communication Technology : V. Proposed Action Plan

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A. Undertake e-readiness assessment

27. To obtain a clearer picture of the E-readiness of the selected and interested DMCs for ICT, a more detailed country analysis is needed to assess variables such as connectivity, E-leadership, information security, human capital, and E-business climate¹⁸. The country analysis will provide the baseline information for follow-up actions at the country level. Country studies in selected DMCs, particularly the less-connected ones, will be undertaken, in cooperation with the DMCs; ADB resident missions; and other interested international, regional, and bilateral organizations¹⁹. The results of the assessment will provide relevant and reliable information and data to assess the current status; identify the gaps and weaknesses of the existing infrastructure, policies, regulations, standards, human resources, and the actual use of ICT in DMCs; and be reflected in ADB’s country strategy and program²⁰ for the selected DMC.

28. Based on the results of the country analysis, a DMC national ICT development action plan can be developed and/or strengthened as a part of the country strategy and program. The results of the E-readiness assessment should also provide a basis for improving social and institutional frameworks, as well as work routines developed before the advent of ICT. In harnessing ICT, a change in mind-set and work culture, including operational business processes, may be necessary to reap full ICT benefits. Active utilization of ICT by the public sector and the promotion of on-line service delivery, which are essential to ensure improved citizens’ access to government, will be encouraged.

29. The private sector plays a lead role in the development of information and communications networks in the information society. Therefore, as part of the E-readiness assessment of the DMCs, a review of what private firms and ICT industries (i.e., local, national, regional, and global private sectors) are doing, domestically and regionally in the Asia and Pacific region, should help identify potential strategic public-private sector partnerships to be developed. In several more advanced countries of the region, ICT development is spearheaded by the private sector; the public sector complements private sector initiatives by focusing on policy and human resources development. However, in many DMCs, especially the least developed, the private sector can be reluctant to invest in ICT and should be encouraged with adequate lending and/or guarantee instruments to actively participate in ICT development, especially in rural areas where business opportunities might exist but where business is considered risky.

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