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Understanding ICT adoption in SAARC member countries

Author

Listed:
  • Thakur Dhakal

    (Kangwon National University)

  • Dae-Eun Lim

    (Kangwon National University)

Abstract

This study analyzes the four key information and communications technology (ICT) indicators (fixed-line subscribers, mobile cellular subscribers, fixed broadband subscribers and individuals using the internet) in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) member countries and finds the mobile telecommunication services are highly adopted. Further, considering mobile subscribers’ data from 2000 to 2017, we compare the Bass, Gompertz, and logistic econometric diffusion models to identify the best adoption diffusion pattern of mobile telecommunication technology. The seven SAARC members of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka follow the Gompertz model, while India follows the logistic pattern. The main contribution of this study is offering a supporting material for telecommunication policymakers and stakeholders to design a sustainable ICT strategy for the SAARC countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Thakur Dhakal & Dae-Eun Lim, 2020. "Understanding ICT adoption in SAARC member countries," Letters in Spatial and Resource Sciences, Springer, vol. 13(1), pages 67-80, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:lsprsc:v:13:y:2020:i:1:d:10.1007_s12076-020-00245-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s12076-020-00245-2
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    ICT adoption and diffusion; Mobile telecommunication; SAARC; Diffusion model;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C1 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General
    • M0 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - General
    • O5 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies
    • R1 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics

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