Research Trends in Information and Communications Technology in Developing, Emerging and Transition Economies

Abstract

Information and communications technology (ICT) is the principal enabler for global connectedness and the flattening of the global market place. Although ICT in emerging economies is critical for local firms to maintain competitiveness and is a driving force for economic development, the mainstream information systems research remains focused on ICT issues related to a small number of highly developed countries. In contrast, only relatively little research is being reported that specifically addresses the issues that arise from employing ICT in developing, emerging and transition economies. In this paper, we try to identify the trends and shortcomings in the current research by reviewing thirty papers in this topic area that have been published in recent proceedings of the Americas Conference on Information Systems (AMCIS). Based on this review, existing gaps and new research opportunities are discussed.

Keywords: Developing countries, emerging economies, transitional economies, research trends, information and communications technology