A Constructive Technology Assessment Approach to ICT Planning in Developing Countries: Evaluating the First Phase, the Roundtable Workshop

Abstract

Information and communication technology (ICT) might play an important role in development. There are many failed implementations as there is limited knowledge of how to apply ICT in a development context. The Roundtable (RT) workshop is a participatory approach based on constructive technology assessment. This paper develops an evaluative framework to assess the effectiveness of the RT workshop. It is an interpretive study based on quantitative and qualitative data from case studies. It is a rare and detailed study on the process and output of a participatory exercise. It shows that the RT workshop is a useful and robust methodology to integrate ICTs in priority areas of sector development like agriculture, education, health, etc. Empowerment, reflexive learning, and networking are key elements to generate owned up ICT projects that are moulded to local needs. In a cross-case analysis relevant contextual factors are identified.