Practical Insights on Thought Leadership for ICT4D Projects

10 ICT4D Leaders

Thought Leadership in ICT4D

ICTworks authors provide innovative and strategic thinking on the use of technology to support development goals and address social and economic challenges in developing countries.  Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the field.

ICTworks thought leaders have a deep understanding of the social, economic, and political contexts in which they work, and are able to use this understanding to identify opportunities for using technology to address development challenges. They are also able to see beyond the immediate technical issues to consider the broader implications of technology use, and are able to communicate their insights and ideas effectively to diverse audiences.

Thought leadership includes research, writing, speaking at conferences and events, and advising policy makers and development organizations on the use of technology for development. It is an important role that helps to shape the direction of the field and ensure that technology is used in a way that is effective, sustainable, and benefits the most people.

When the First Step is a Failure…

When the First Step is a Failure…

Published on: Dec 14 2015 by Wayan Vota - 1 Comment
Last Thursday night, we had the 5th Annual Fail Festival DC, and by the tweets and photos it was an amazing event. Woven into the fun were several strong lessons...
The Digital Divide Will Not Be Bridged By Business Models Alone

The Digital Divide Will Not Be Bridged By Business Models Alone

Published on: Dec 07 2015 by Guest Writer - 1 Comment
Reading through “To Really Help the Global Poor, Create Technology They’ll Pay For” in the Harvard Business Review, I was conflicted by the main point...
How Can We Fix the Facebook Safety Check Bias?

How Can We Fix the Facebook Safety Check Bias?

Published on: Nov 15 2015 by Wayan Vota - 6 Comments
In reaction to Friday’s tragedy in Paris, Facebook activated its Safety Check feature for the first time for a man-made disaster. While I am excited about...
We Are Not Alone: Silicon Valley is Donor Driven Development Too

We Are Not Alone: Silicon Valley is Donor Driven Development Too

Published on: Oct 14 2015 by Wayan Vota - 11 Comments
WeWork, the hot co-working space that features exposed brick, shiny desks, and free beer, has two locations in my office building. Both are beautiful and I only...
Please RSVP Now: USAID Digital Development Forum India

Please RSVP Now: USAID Digital Development Forum India

Published on: Oct 11 2015 by Wayan Vota - 2 Comments
The Government of India launched the Digital India Program in 2015, with the aim to “transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy”...
Wow! Myanmar is Going Straight to Smartphones

Wow! Myanmar is Going Straight to Smartphones

Published on: Sep 30 2015 by Wayan Vota - 15 Comments
A year ago, I predicted that Myanmar would be a smartphone only country. I saw the confluence of cheap smartphones, savvy people, and innovative mobile network...
The Sustainable Development Goals ICT Playbook

The Sustainable Development Goals ICT Playbook

Published on: Sep 28 2015 by Guest Writer - 2 Comments
The Sustainable Development Goals represent a unique opportunity for the world to work together on 17 critical measures that embody the collective aspirations of...
Are YOU the Lucky Winner of Our Apple Watch Contest?

Are YOU the Lucky Winner of Our Apple Watch Contest?

Published on: Sep 25 2015 by Jana Melpolder - Comments Off on Are YOU the Lucky Winner of Our Apple Watch Contest?
ICTworks recently celebrated its 6th Birthday, and we did it in style by creating a reader’s feedback survey and giving away an Apple Watch as a survey participant...
10 Myths About Girls’ Empowerment and Mobile Learning

10 Myths About Girls’ Empowerment and Mobile Learning

Published on: Sep 09 2015 by Linda Raftree - Comments Off on 10 Myths About Girls’ Empowerment and Mobile Learning
I had the chance to share some thoughts at UNESCO’s recent Mobile Learning Week. My presentation explored some myths about girls empowerment and mobile learning...
You Are Invited to the 2015 Game Changers Summit

You Are Invited to the 2015 Game Changers Summit

Published on: Aug 12 2015 by Jana Melpolder - Comments Off on You Are Invited to the 2015 Game Changers Summit
Are you looking to harness the power of ICTs in new ways in development? Do you have an inventive idea that you want to share with the greater ICT community? Do...