Towards a process framework to guide the development of ICT4D programs: a South African perspective

ABSTRACT

Although a large body of literature exists to support the execution of Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICT4D) initiatives, many such initiatives fail to deliver the intended results. By following a Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, this article presents an artifact (a framework) whose purpose is to integrate activities/processes noted in the literature to support the successful development of ICT4D initiatives. The result of the study is an evaluated process framework which serves as a tool to guide developers in identifying activities/processes that can support the success of ICT4D initiatives.

KEYWORDS:

• Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICT4D)
• framework
• exploration
• co-creation
• empowerment
• agile development

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lauren Lize Fouche

Lauren Lize Fouche holds a master’s in industrial engineering from Stellenbosch University and is now Project Design Engineer at Skynamo in Stellenbosch South Africa

Sara S. (Saartjie) Grobbelaar

Sara S. (Saartjie) Grobbelaar is Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering at Stellenbosch University. She is also a research associate at the Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (CREST), Stellenbosch University.

Wouter G. Bam

Wouter G. Bam is Associate Professor in Industrial Engineering at Stellenbosch University. He holds a PhD in Industrial Engineering.