Boundary Objects to Guide Sustainable Technology‐Supported Participatory Development for Poverty Alleviation in the Context of Digital Divides

Abstract

AbstractThere is a growing body of evidence to show that sound implementation of information and communications technologies (ICTs) can benefit development goals. However these benefits are still far from reaching those who are most impoverished. In part, this lack of effectiveness is attributed to a lack of clarity in the theory and practice of ICT for development (or ICT4D as it is commonly known). We have sought to address these concerns by reviewing a range of ‘boundary objects’ – conceptual frameworks and participation processes – that have been used to support sustainable development projects with multiple stakeholder interests. Using Sen's ‘capability approach’ as an organizing principle, we have considered how these boundary objects can be combined to provide a comprehensive framework for sustainable technology‐supported participatory development to alleviate poverty. We consider that this framework offers an easily understandable, step‐by‐step approach to planning, implementing, and evaluating ICT4D projects, yet is based on a growing empirical research base, and points to detailed and concrete methods and tools to facilitate effective practice. By ensuring that stakeholders are central to the process right from the beginning, the framework is intended as a boundary object able to be adopted and adapted by those stakeholders to facilitate grassroots innovation and achievement of community goals as a means to alleviate poverty.