Strategic planning for e-development in developing countries

One of the most persistent criticisms of open markets and free trade is that they increase the gap between developed and developing countries. The rapid emergence of the internet economy is giving this argument new impetus and is increasing focus on the digital divide and e-development to reduce the gap between "information rich" and "information poor" countries. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is widely recognized as a potentially powerful tool to minimize this gap. ICT can provide a great opportunity for developing countries to leapfrog stages of economic development. A strategic management approach to ICT is therefore necessary in providing national guidelines on how ICT can be harnessed by developing countries to increase their technological capabilities towards e-development. This study proposes a frame work that aimed at facilitating the process of creating and implementing ICT strategies. This framework that comprises three phases is a step-by-step methodology that can help the developing countries to establish their own ICT strategies. It needs further studies to complement with countries mission based on their resources and situations.