An interesting follow-up to a post earlier this week about mobile networks in developing countries. I just received a notice about a World Bank sponsored conference of the delivery of public services through mobile phones on November 29th. From the announcement:
According to the ITU, the total number of mobile users worldwide as of late 2006 was about 2.7 billion and the number of internet users was just above 1.1 billion. This means that there is at least 23.6% of world population (and at least 22.2% of developing countries population but in reality more) who already have mobile phones but are not yet using the Internet.
Questions to be explored at the seminar may include:
- Does this provide a strong case for leveraging the mobile channel to dramatically improve access to public services, including electronic government services to those who can afford to use a personal or shared mobile phone (e.g. Village Phone)? Does this create an opportunity to connect in the near future the next two billion people to some of the benefits of e-government, e-health, e-education, e-banking and e-commerce? Should the governments and development community take this opportunity to drastically improve access to information and services much more seriously?
- Can Mobile Government transform the lives of common people in developing countries? What are best examples of such impact? What are the types of services which can be easily provided on mobile phones/devices ("quick wins") and what the more strategic high-impact services ("killer applications")?
- What are the key constraints to making this vision a reality? What are the critical success factors and lessons learned?
- How should governments and donors change the way they do business to take full advantage of mobile technologies?
- What is the role of the private sector? Are there successful business models (e.g. PPP) for private sector companies to support value-added m-government services?
It sounds like a fascinating few hours that may be well worth your time in person or via webcast. R. Chandrashekar, Additional Secretary (e-Gov) for the Government of India will be a keynoter explaining how up to 50-60% of government services in India can be delivered via mobile channel.
I have to be out of town that day but will appreciate getting a report from anyone who can attend and will share it here.
Just when you thought it may be safe to forget about mobile again.
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