Internet Infrastructure Research Articles

Digital Dynamics in BRICS: Exploring Digital Access and Policy Challenges

As the global economy continues to digitize, BRICS nations are at a pivotal juncture in leveraging digital technologies for economic growth. This paper investigates the dynamics of digitalization in these countries focusing on the three major parameters of digitalization- internet penetration, cost of internet and digital payment. It also analyses government strategies in these countries. As BRICS accounting for a significant share of global GDP yet experiencing disparities in digital service export and adoption, understanding these dynamics is essential for adopting comprehensive policies that harness their digital potential. The research highlights the historical context of BRICS as an influential economic bloc, its rapid digital transformation influenced by emerging technologies. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of internet penetration as a fundamental enabler of socio-economic activities, correlating better internet infrastructure with increased economic participation. Employing a comparative analysis methodology, this research examines the performance of individual BRICS nations, revealing challenges and opportunities in enhancing connectivity and fostering financial inclusion through digital payment systems. The study also analyses the relationship between cost of internet and internet users in the BRICS countries. This study ultimately aims to put forward analysis about the diverse digital ecosystems within BRICS, advocating for collaborative strategies to navigate inherent challenges while maximizing economic growth and inclusivity.

Does Smartphone Use Affect Attitudes Toward Aging Among Older Adults in Rural Areas? An Empirical Analysis Using Data from the Chinese Longitudinal Aging Social Survey

Fostering positive attitudes toward aging among older adults serves as a key measure of success in promoting active aging. Based on microdata from the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey in 2018, this study uses ordinary least squares (OLS) and the two-stage least squares (2SLS) to evaluate the impact of smartphone use on the attitudes toward aging among older adults in rural areas. The results show that smartphone use significantly relieves older adults’ negative attitudes toward aging, with effects persisting even after employing robust estimations and instrumental variable techniques to address endogeneity concerns. These results emphasize the need to improve rural internet infrastructure and to promote both smartphone access and literacy among older adults in rural China to amplify these positive effects.

E-learning adoption: a comparative analysis of public sentiments during COVID-19

ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated e-learning adoption, presenting both opportunities and challenges for educational development, particularly in the context of Information Technology for Development (ITD). This study profiles public sentiments on e-learning to identify key factors influencing IT-enabled education. A text analysis of Tweets from the United States and India posted from March 2020 to January 2022 was conducted using a computer-aided text analysis and natural language processing alongside a content analysis using a machine learning technique. Findings show positive sentiments towards e-learning from both countries, with trust, anticipation, and joy as predominant emotion categories. Themes of strongest importance are students, schools, and education as central to e-learning discussions. The study also uncovers challenges such as the need for internet infrastructure and teacher training in digital pedagogy. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of how information technologies can address educational challenges and promote development in diverse global contexts.

Digital recognition: cybersecurity and internet infrastructure in UAE–Israel diplomacy

Abstract The 2020 Israel–UAE Abraham Accords normalized these states' relations, with heavy emphasis on digital technologies. International Relations theories of recognition, however, hardly consider the role digital technologies play in establishing recognition between states. What role, then, did digital technologies play in this landmark shift in UAE–Israel recognition? This article uses three aspects of digital technologies in the UAE–Israel case—cybersecurity cooperation, cloud computing, and subsea cables—to inductively develop three propositions regarding the role of digital technologies in state recognition. First, states use digital technologies—and private sector companies that own and operate them—as diplomatic lubrication: a means to navigate around and overcome difficult diplomatic relationships, building momentum towards recognition. Second, digital competition between states leads them to conform their national economic structures towards global technology companies in similar ways, thereby recognizing each other as equal participants in a global market—which we term market-oriented homogenization. Third, states involved in transnational internet infrastructure projects together develop technical working practices, interests, and dependencies that facilitate diplomatic recognition—which we term infrastructural integration. Building on these three propositions, we put forward an overall concept of ‘digital recognition’ to capture their common theme: the influence of digital technologies, their owners or their operators on state recognition.

Internet infrastructure, digital development and urban energy efficiency

Internet infrastructure, digital development and urban energy efficiency

Creative Economy as a Driver of Economic Growth in the Digital Era

The creative economy has become a strategic sector in supporting economic growth in the digital era. This research aims to explore the opportunities and potential of the creative economy through digitalization and the challenges faced in developing this sector. This study uses a qualitative study method, with in-depth interviews and observations as data collection techniques to explore the experiences, strategies, and obstacles faced by business actors. The results show that digitalization plays an important role in expanding market reach, improving operational efficiency, and driving innovation. Business actors utilize e-commerce, social media, and digital applications to promote creative products and interact directly with consumers effectively. However, this success still faces challenges, including limited internet infrastructure and low digital literacy among small and medium business actors. Appropriate policy support and increasing digital literacy are key in overcoming these obstacles. This research concludes that with collaboration between the government, the private sector, and the community, the creative economy in Indonesia has great potential to become a key pillar of sustainable economic growth and strengthen competitiveness in the global market.

Online Marketing and Advertising in Nigeria: Prospects and Challenges

The study was guided by three research objectives and underpinned by two theories: Technological Determinism and Social Presence Theories. The study was tilted toward qualitative methodology while library research design was adopted in studying secondary data obtained from books, journals, and newspapers which were analysed. Among other findings, the study ascertained that the Internet and other communication technology channels are generally changing many aspects of consumers’ buying behaviour all over the world, including Nigeria, to new goods and services and that the Internet and the World Wide Web have transformed how goods are bought and the way businesses are conducted. The study also found that despite the prospect of online marketing and advertising, unpredictable fixed line networks in Nigeria and unstable electricity supply, pose serious challenges to online marketing and advertising in Nigeria. The study concluded that these situations pose challenges to sustainable marketing communication in Nigeria. Given these findings, the study recommended among others that, the government and all the relevant stakeholders should improve on internet infrastructure in Nigeria, constant electricity supply, and make data subscription affordable and that online advertising messages need to be compelling and engaging to be able to capture and retain audience attention, to achieve the desired result.

Barriers and facilitators to remote healthcare services use: perspectives of women and providers

Abstract Background The remote health services (RHS) proliferation raises concerns regarding relatively low use among minorities. Arab women in Israel belong to a minority that experiences health disparities, stigmatization, social and economic marginalization. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitating means to RHS use relevant to Arab women in Israel from the perspective of women, primary care physicians (PCPs), and nurses. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 Arab women, 18 PCPs, and 4 nurses from different parts in Israel between December 2023-March 2024. We used a positive deviance approach by interviewing 14 women who succeeded in using RHS and 11 who did not. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and thematically analyzed using Atlas qualitative analysis software. Findings The data distilled three main barriers to RHS use: sociocultural- importance of close relations with PCPs, privacy concerns of revealing the body or conversing with unfamiliar physicians, strict supervision by the family (Bedouin society); logistical-limited internet access and infrastructure, personal- unawareness to RHS, digital literacy, normative conceptions of limited quality of care and believing that only some health conditions are suitable for RHS. Facilitating means to RHS use: gender roles-women’s role as family health caretakers, mothers maintaining work-family balance and younger women generation feeling responsible for the older generation RHS adoption, accessibility- wider access to care due to limited transportation. Conclusions It is important to identify facilitating conditions (e.g., training opportunities, social, technological support), cultured elements (gender roles, limited mobility), and trust to adopting RHS by minority populations. The study provide data for developing requirements to ensure more equitable access to RHS to Arab women including addressing privacy concerns, guidelines for RHS-related information dissemination, and for RHS providers. Key messages • The findings help develop approaches and means to improve RHS use for Arab women from diverse backgrounds by identifying barriers associated with access, culture, and normative conceptions. • Developing RHS systems into routine care must ensure equitable use across social groups and address economic, logistical, and sociocultural barriers and guidelines for RHS information dissemination.

Factors that Influence the Use of Facebook in Service Delivery: A Case of Kisumu County Government, Kenya

Organisational communication needs to be effective for organisations to meet their objectives. This study examined Facebook as a communication tool for enhancing government service delivery in Kisumu County. It sought to determine the factors that influence the use of Facebook in service delivery in Kisumu County. The study used a descriptive research design. The population was 307,702 members of the public in Kisumu town. The Krejcie and Morgan tables was used to get the sample size. This study employed mixed methods in data collection which includes administered 399 questionnaires to service seekers and 5 interview guides to service providers in the county. Data analyses involved the utilization of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 26). Descriptive statistics was used to analyze quantitative data, while for qualitative data, a thematic analysis approach was applied, where responses were grouped into themes and sub themes and analyzed Facebook's role in the County Government of Kisumu service delivery was influenced by factors like internet penetration, demographic information, infrastructure, government policies, and economics. This study recommends that the County Government of Kisumu should develop comprehensive initiatives aimed at expanding internet coverage and improving connectivity, especially in underserved areas.

Implementation of Digital Initiatives in Higher Education in India: Problems and Solutions

The education system is gradually becoming technology-oriented. The Ministry of Education of India has initiatives numerous digital platforms, tools, and devices like (SWAYAM, SWAYAM Prabha, Shodhganga, Shodhshuddhi, NDL, NAD, e-PG Pathshala, e-Yantra, FOSSE, SAMARTH, IRINS, spoken tutorials and Virtual Labs and so on) to ensure that everyone can access advance and quality education. The study explores problems and solutions regarding implementing digital initiatives in higher educational institutions. This study adopted secondary data from different papers published in journals, newspaper pieces, and various government policies and reports with the help of content analysis. Due to a lack of knowledge and awareness, many problems are faced in successfully implementing digital initiatives in India's higher Education. The problems encountered include limited digital resources and tools, poor internet connectivity in rural institutions, and a lack of proper policy guidelines and rules and regulations when implementing digital initiatives. This paper explores solutions to the problems regarding implementing digital initiatives, such as regular training and workshop programme arrangements that help to increase knowledge and awareness among academics, researchers, and students. Provide adequate internet infrastructure, especially in rural areas, and require sustainable funding to implement digital initiatives in higher Education successfully. The outcome will be highly beneficial if the students can learn digitally. It is valuable for faculty members to develop professional skills.

Factors influencing regional disparities in online shopping

Online shopping has grown exponentially in the Russian Federation (hereinafter referred to as RF, Russia) in recent years. This growth has significantly accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, data shows that there are inter-regional disparities in the use of online shopping. This includes intergenerational and rural-urban disparities. This study investigates the factors responsible for inter-regional differences in the development of online shopping in Russia. The author has identified 5 main factors that can influence the development: internet infrastructure (measured by regional expenses for the introduction of digital technologies and the number of connected mobile subscribers), economic wealth (measured by gross regional product), standard of living (measured by the population income), rate of poverty, and the region’s population. The research uses data of the Federal State Statistics Service and Association of Internet Trade Companies to analyse 85 regions in the RF. A multi-level regression analysis has enabled examination of the 5 factors and the contextual influence of 8 federal districts of Russia in level 2. The results show that internet infrastructure, economic wealth, population size, and the 8 federal districts has influenced the development of online shopping in the RF, but standard of living is not statistically significant. The author recommends that policymakers pay attention to these underlying factors.

Breakdowns, (Un-)Sichtbarkeiten und glitches. Kritische Geographien der Resilienz digitaler Infrastrukturen

Abstract. This paper draws on current discussions in digital geography that emphasize the political and theoretical role of glitches. While we sympathize with the basic assumptions of this discussion and also find it helpful to connect these to older discussions around digital infrastructures, we propose an opposing perspective with this text. Using the example of Internet infrastructures, we focus on the continuous and painstaking work of making infrastructures invisible and preventing glitches. We are particularly interested in the production of resilience and focus from a geographical perspective on the rationalities of redundancy and addressing latency.

Can the COVID-19 pandemic create a context for participatory urban e-planning in the Wa Municipality of Ghana?

ABSTRACT In many countries, policy and law have been reformed to make urban planning more participatory. Despite these initiatives, urban planning typically continues to be characterised by low participation. Drawing on the literature on social media and participatory e-planning, the paper argues that the COVID-19 pandemic has provided new opportunities for the introduction of effective e-participation in planning. We use a qualitative research approach to investigate how social media provides avenues for e-participation in planning in the Wa Municipality, Ghana. The assessment highlights how increased use of social media in the pandemic era may not necessarily translate into effective participatory e-planning largely due to poor internet infrastructure.

Exploring the Challenges of Online Learning in Nigerian Higher Education

This study examines the challenges faced by lecturers in Nigerian higher education institutions when adopting and using e-learning platforms. Through virtual interviews conducted with 12 university lecturers across six regions, the research identifies several key obstacles: unreliable internet connectivity, frequent power outages, and limited access to technological resources. Additionally, inadequate training and institutional support are noted as significant barriers. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the qualitative data, revealing patterns and common themes related to these challenges. The study suggests that improving internet and power infrastructure, along with enhancing training and technical support, are crucial strategies for overcoming these issues. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to create a more supportive environment for e-learning, aiming to improve the educational experience for both lecturers and students.

Exploring strategies to mitigate Internet's environmental damage: An investigation of intrinsic, extrinsic, and price‐based strategies

AbstractThe internet infrastructure, for example, the data centers, is purported to be making substantial damage to the environment. While there are many studies on the national or global interventions and technology developments to minimize environmental damage from the internet, very few have investigated the individual level strategies. This study examines individual‐level strategies, including intrinsic motivation (IM), extrinsic motivation, and price‐based interventions, that internet‐based organizations can implement to minimize the environmental impact of internet usage. The research aims to identify the most effective strategy for reducing individual internet usage after individuals become aware of the environmental consequences. The survey experiment results demonstrate that combining all three strategies proves most effective in mitigating the environmental damage caused by internet usage. Extrinsic motivation is particularly effective, both in combination with other strategies and when utilized independently after raising awareness. The results also depict that when taken individually, price‐based strategies (PPSs) show a lower impact, while IM exhibits the lowest impact on behavior change. Additionally, males exhibit a higher inclination towards extrinsic motivation strategies based on the multi‐group analysis. Remarkably, individuals, regardless of gender, age, income, or level of internet activity, show a willingness to adopt PPSs to decrease internet usage after exposure to an informational video. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of strategies to minimize the environmental impact of individual internet usage.

Barriers and Strategies: Analysis of the Implementation of Independent Learning Independent Campus (MBKM) at PTKI in Aceh

The objective of this study is to analyze the challenges encountered in the implementation of the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) policy in Islamic Religious Colleges (PTKI) in Aceh and to propose strategies to address these challenges and enhance the effectiveness of policy implementation. The study focuses specifically on implementing the MBKM policy in PTKI in Aceh, which is noteworthy due to the unique obstacles relating to infrastructure and human resources in this region. The study offers strategic solutions that can be employed to improve the effectiveness of MBKM policy implementation. Furthermore, it provides valuable insights for other universities in Indonesia that may confront similar challenges in implementing the MBKM policy. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach to investigate PTKI subjects, using interviews, observations, and policy document analysis. The findings reveal that significant obstacles, including a lack of understanding and awareness, limited technological infrastructure, insufficient internet access, and financial constraints impede the implementation of PTKI in Aceh. To overcome these challenges, strategic efforts are needed to raise awareness and educate stakeholders about MBKM, upgrade technology and internet infrastructure, enhance human resource readiness and training, revise internal policies to support the flexibility of MBKM better, streamline bureaucratic processes, and explore additional or alternative sources of funding to support program implementation.

The role of governance in the effect of the internet on financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa

ABSTRACT This paper analyses the role of governance quality in the relationship between the Internet and financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan African countries. The study uses data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) database for indicators of financial inclusion, World Development Indicators (WDI) for Internet users and World Governance Indicators (WGI) for governance indicators from 2004 to 2020. Analyzing the data using the System Generalized Method of Moments (SGMM), the results show that the Internet can be effectively complemented with the quality of governance to improve financial inclusion. Thresholds of governance that are needed for the Internet to promote financial inclusion are provided. Policies aimed at reinforcing the quality of governance in SSA countries could help consolidate Internet infrastructure to promote Internet usage and, in turn, improve financial inclusion. Other policy implications are discussed.

Optimizing IT Project Management in Ukraine's Aviation Sector: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Insights

The Ukrainian aviation industry is undergoing digital transformation; however, the pace remains behind global and European standards due to several challenges. These include limited funding, a lack of skilled IT professionals, and a slow rate of modern technology adoption. The research, titled "Optimizing IT Project Management in Ukraine’s Aviation Sector: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Insights," addresses the urgent need for improvements in IT project management to enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and technological advancement within the aviation sector in Ukraine. This article analyzes the sector's current challenges, including insufficient government and private sector investment, internet infrastructure issues, and a shortage of IT specialists. It also identifies opportunities in areas like automation, digitization, and the potential for public-private collaborations. The study's primary objective is to develop and evaluate an optimal IT project management framework tailored to Ukraine’s aviation industry. This framework aims to optimize resource usage, integrate modern technologies like AI, automation, and cybersecurity, and improve global competitiveness. Furthermore, the research offers a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of Ukraine’s aviation IT landscape, benchmarking it against European standards. A substantial gap exists between Ukraine and Europe regarding IT investment and automation, with European countries leading in adopting AI-driven systems, enhanced cybersecurity, and automated business and customer service processes. To bridge this divide, the study proposes an optimized IT project management model focused on strategic priorities such as investment in skill development, strengthening public-private partnerships, enhancing cybersecurity, implementing agile work methods, and supporting innovation through government initiatives. In conclusion, the study underscores that enhancing IT project management in Ukraine’s aviation industry is crucial for maintaining global competitiveness and improving operational efficiency. The proposed model offers actionable insights to address current challenges while capitalizing on new opportunities, thereby ensuring resilience in the face of ongoing global digitization and technological advancements.

New experience of implementing patient e-referral in the Iranian health system: a qualitative study.

Implementing an electronic system of service categorization and a referral system in healthcare is a strategic approach to improving overall health outcomes and optimizing resource use. This study aimed to investigate challenges experienced with the electronic patient referral system in Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (MUMS). In this qualitative research, data were collected using semi-structured interviews. Participants included physicians, experts, and stakeholders working in the Family Physician Program and the referral system, selected through purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis framework, in which a thematic framework was developed, and key themes were identified. Data analysis was performed using Atlas.ti8 software. According to the interviewees, the challenges of digitizing the referral system can be categorized into three main themes: structure, process, and outcomes. These themes include ten sub-themes, such as challenges related to Internet Infrastructure and the Sina System, Patients' Choice of Desired Specialists, Receiving Payment for Services, Appointment Scheduling, Interdepartmental Coordination, Recording Definitive Diagnosis Codes Before Referral, False Referrals, Dissatisfaction, Feedbacks, and Health Indicators. To improve the e-referral in Iran's health system, several strategies can be implemented. These include sustainable resource allocation, designing consequence mechanisms within the referral system to motivate collaboration and improving appointment scheduling systems. Furthermore, addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, IT professionals, and patient representatives to ensure that the system is efficient, user-friendly, and effectively meets the needs of all parties involved. Not paying enough attention to these issues cause reform failure while solving them requires multi-dimensional, systematic and coordinated interventions with a deep understanding of the obstacles and challenges. Disregarding these factors may result in apathy over time, ultimately impacting both the quantity and, more importantly, the quality of services.

Competing or completing digital religion: priests’ attitudes toward Ortho-bloggers in Romania

ABSTRACT Religious blogging has gained momentum in the last decade. Extensive research covers the evolution, organization, and activity of online Christian religious bloggers among Catholics, Protestants, and Neo-Protestant groups and most analyses focus on the perspective of bloggers. In this context, limited attention within the literature in English is paid to online Orthodox groups and very little is known about the clergy’s views of the activity of Ortho-bloggers. This article addresses this gap in the literature and aims to explain the attitudes of Orthodox priests toward Ortho-blogging activities. It uses Romania as a case study, due to its Orthodox majority, its strong internet infrastructure, and the online activity of the Orthodox Church. The analysis draws on qualitative methods—semi-structured interviews with Orthodox priests, conducted in January–February 2021. The results indicate that priests have normative attitudes toward Ortho-bloggers and their activities online. The findings have important theoretical and empirical implications for the study of religion and the engagement with new modes of communication in new democracies.