An Overview on Strategic ICT Implementations Toward Developing Knowledge Societies

Abstract

As nations continue to conceptualize, adopt, implement and monitor their respective information and communications technologies (ICTs) policies and e-strategies, it is vital that a critical assessment is undertaken on their effective progress. This includes analysis of strategies, methodologies and best practices while weighing the impact, effectiveness and efficiency of these policies and strategies. However, the demands, motivations and incentives of various governments for adopting, adapting and initiating ICTs varies from country to country, with diverse economic, social, cultural and political environments. Researches in this aspect recognized the necessity of a cohesive ICT policy and strategic framework in each country for socio-economic development at their grass roots. The execution of these policies and strategies should include concrete national commitment and strong political will at the highest levels of government, and an enabling environment that promotes stakeholder involvement in setting agendas and implementing plans and programs. This chapter provides insights into various national implementations in promoting related activities, tried to establish an analytical approach that would assist in formulating ICT policies and strategies by identifying different ICT indicators. Furthermore, this chapter focuses on critical aspects of different strategic national level policies with short-medium-long term visions that targeted both the immediate needs of the populace and long-term needs of nations by integrating ICTs. Finally, this chapter has recommended that via coherent and complimentary policies that engage both the private sector and civil society organizations, nations can move forward towards creating a knowledge society and at the same time by leveraging capabilities of ICT can address the social, economic and political issues on the ground.