The Resilience Principles: A Framework for New ICT Governance

Abstract

This article analyzes the forces that are driving change in information and communication technologies, and advocates a new governance approach to suit this situation. It argues that the need for new governance is driven by cyclical (modularity, convergence, and decentralization) and step-wise changes (third sector, tempo, and scale). After summarizing the lessons that can be learned from managing complex adaptive systems, it offers a framework for action and forbearance that reflects the underlying system dynamics, balances conflicting interests, and maximizes the social benefits of the Internet/web. This approach uses principles-based policy-making to bridge from day-to-day contingencies to long-term policy plans and advances the four Resilience Principles: flexibility, delegation, big picture, and diversity.