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on Information and Communication Technologies |
| By: | Tom Broekel; Torben Klarl; ; ; |
| Abstract: | Innovations are widely accepted as fundamental drivers of economic growth by increasing productivity and creating new markets. However, empirical evidence on the long-term relationship between technological progress and economic growth remains scarce, with few studies considering shifts in technologies’ fundamental properties, such as their degree of complexity. Yet, higher levels of complexity are argued to increase technologies’ economic potential, and consequently, ignoring this dimension of technologies provides an incomplete picture of innovations’ growth effects. We address this research gap by exploring the relationship between economic growth and technological complexity over more than 170 years in the United States (US). Utilizing patent data, the concept of the complexity frontier, and partial wavelet analysis, we find that economic growth has not been driven by patented innovation and technological complexity for most of this period. However, since the beginning of the ICT revolution in the 1990s, it has significantly contributed to GDP growth. |
| Keywords: | Innovation, Economic Growth, Technological Complexity, USA, Complexity Frontier, Wavelt Analysis |
| JEL: | O30 O47 N10 |
| Date: | 2024–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:egu:wpaper:2427 |
| By: | Drydakis, Nick (Anglia Ruskin University) |
| Abstract: | Information and communication technology (ICT) can boost existing socio-economic inequalities if the former is socially exclusive. Longstanding barriers prevent minoritized populations from accessing ICT, thus leading to a vicious circle between digital divide and poor development. The digital divide can be most important when assessing United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals No. 4 (lifelong learning opportunities), No. 5 (empowerment), No. 8 (growth), and No. 10 (reduced inequalities). The current study presents the outcomes of a business apps training intervention, targeting immigrant entrepreneurs running small firms in Greece, Cyprus and the UK. Multifaceted gender digital divides were unravelled, and training was found to improve entrepreneurs' internet/digital skills and firms' digital competencies, whilst also boosting empowerment and reducing gender digital disparities. Given the positive contribution of immigrant firms to countries' growth, ways to facilitate sustainable performances through digital skills training merit consideration. Further, improving immigrant female entrepreneurs' digital skills requires intersectional approaches that address a vector of socio-economic and cultural barriers, ensuring that ICT-driven sustainable development is much more inclusive. |
| Keywords: | information and communication technology, digital divide, immigrants, business apps training, empowerment, digital competencies |
| JEL: | O3 M2 |
| Date: | 2024–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17275 |
| By: | Dumont, Guillaume; De Marco, Stefano; Heslper, Ellen |
| Abstract: | How do people experience the platform-mediated job search process? We explore this question based on a sample of in-depth interviews (n = 20) with low-qualified, unemployed Spanish job seekers. Our main finding shows that the ways they use Information and Communication Technologies negatively impact their engagement in online job search activities. Based on our findings, we develop a framework of online job search discouragement revolving around crafting online profiles, applying for jobs, reviewing application statuses and integrating the tensions these activities carry for the experience and the outcome of the platform-mediated job search. |
| Keywords: | digital exclusion; Information and Communications Technologies (ICT); job search discouragement; low-qualified job seekers; platform-mediated job search |
| JEL: | R14 J01 |
| Date: | 2024–03–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ehl:lserod:120166 |
| By: | Oh, Sangyon; Jung, Jaemin |
| Abstract: | The development of artificial intelligence (hereafter referred to as AI) has permeated various industrial sectors, significantly transforming organizational dynamics and strategic approaches. The rapid proliferation of information and communication technology (ICT) and the ongoing process of datafication across society have extended their impact to journalism as well (Gelgel, 2020; de-Lima-Santos & Ceron, 2021). The range of AI tools adopted in newsrooms is diverse. AI in journalism is conceptualized as a series of algorithmic processes that produce and disseminate text, images, and videos for public consumption, with minimal human oversight (Carlson, 2015a; Moran & Shaikh, 2022). However, the swift pace of technological advancement has left media companies grappling with confusion. Since the advent of AI, the processes of agenda setting, content gathering and production, and news distribution have radically evolved (Hernandez Serrano et al., 2015; Örnebring, 2010; de-Lima- Santos & Ceron, 2021). These technologies surpass conventional expectations. For instance, Open AI's GPT software series, developed through deep learning, showcases text quality remarkably akin to human writing (Floridi & Christi, 2020; Moran & Shaikh, 2022). |
| Keywords: | AI, Artificial Intelligence, Journalism, Ethics, News Production, Media Technology |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itsb24:302497 |
| By: | Mikołaj Czajkowski (University of Warsaw, Faculty of Economic Sciences); Wojciech Zawadzki (University of Warsaw, Faculty of Economic Sciences); Grzegorz Bernatek (bAudytel S.A.); Maciej Sobolewski (University of Warsaw, Faculty of Economic Sciences) |
| Abstract: | In this study, we explore the dynamics of consumer choices in the Polish telecommunications market, focusing on preferences and valuations for home fixed, home mobile, and purely mobile internet connections. Key attributes such as speed, latency, data limits, and cost are examined. Central to our research is the investigation of how the integration of 5G technology might influence demand elasticity. Using a detailed discrete choice experiment, we apply a mixed logit model with random parameters to analyze stated choice data, enabling us to unravel the complexities of demand elasticity, especially in terms of own- and cross-price elasticities. This approach facilitates an assessment of the degree of substitutability between fixed and mobile internet services. Our findings indicate a moderate substitution effect between fixed and mobile internet services. Results from a Small but Significant and Non-transitory Increase in Price (SSNIP) test suggest that these markets should continue to be regulated separately, mirroring the distinct regulation observed in fixed and mobile telephony. Furthermore, simulations provide insights into potential future market shifts with the advent of 5G services. This paper contributes significantly to the discourse on fixed-mobile internet substitution and offers vital insights for defining markets in antitrust discussions, competitive agreements, and potential mergers within the telecom sector. |
| Keywords: | Fixed-Mobile Internet Substitution, Consumer Preferences in Telecommunications, Mobile Broadband Access, Home Internet Connectivity, Discrete Choice Analysis, 5G Network Impact, Demand Elasticity in Internet Services, Stated Preference Methodology, Telecommunications Market Analysis, Price Elasticity in Internet Access |
| JEL: | L96 D12 C25 L51 O33 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:war:wpaper:2024-15 |
| By: | Fernandez-Bonilla, Fernando |
| Abstract: | This paper studies the determinants of egovernment use in Spain, a country highly ranked in the UN E-Government Development Index. Utilizing a logit model and recent national data (2023), the study identifies key factors influencing egovernment usage, such as time and cost savings, and examines user characteristics in relation to the digital divide. Additionally, the paper aims to advance the definitions of the second and third levels of the digital divide to adapt them to current realities. The findings highlight the importance of ICT skills, trust in technology, and quality internet connectivity for effective e-government participation. Policy recommendations are provided to bridge the digital divide and improve e-government adoption among vulnerable groups, emphasizing the need for targeted support and education to enhance digital skills and trust in e-government services. |
| Keywords: | e-Government, Logit, Internet, Digital Divide, e-Trust |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itsb24:302530 |
| By: | Wongmith, Natnaree; Phuengngern, Ornvipa |
| Abstract: | With the advancement of digital technology, governments have created more channels for citizens to access accessing government services. However, there are disparities in accessibility and utilization of the services, leading to uneven benefits across the population. This study investigated the determinant factors of e-government service utilization and identified the sociodemographic characteristics and technological usage of individuals who used and did not use the services. The study analyzed data from 2023 Nationwide Telecommunications Usage Behavior and Device Access Survey (n = 42, 335). Chi-squared test, z-test and, and binary logistic regression were employed to analyze the data. The findings indicated that age, education, geographical location, mobile broadband technology, and type of data cap are significant predictors of e-government utilization. |
| Keywords: | Digital divide, E-Government service utilization, Mobile internet access, Prepaid service, Postpaid service, Survey research |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itsb24:302471 |
| By: | Boonpanya, Ornicha |
| Abstract: | With the advancement of information and communications technology (ICT), we are exposed to environmental knowledge from various sources and can witness the impacts of environmental crises in real time. Consequently, the rise of global environmental concerns has led to campaigns and initiatives from both the public and private sectors to address these issues. The question remains: Why are sustainable ways of living still far from being achieved, despite industries' efforts to transition to greener pathways and public sector attempts to promote policies that encourage behavioral changes? While environmental awareness is linked to behavior, translating this knowledge into consistent action at the individual level remains an ongoing challenge. Apart from systematic obstacles such as the lack of supportive infrastructure and economic factors, irrational behaviors and ingrained habits often deter individuals from making sustaible choices. Digital nudging harnesses the power of technology to counteract these barriers by influencing more sustainable decisions with various strategies. Therefore, this study aims to investigate how digital nudges with informational provisions influence green purchase intentions. |
| Keywords: | Digital nudges, Green claims, Social norms, Green purchase intentions, Greenwashing |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itsb24:302500 |
| By: | Choi, Jaeseo |
| Abstract: | The advancements in digital technology have not only transformed business operations across various industries but also driven rapid changes and innovations within business landscape. Digital technology operates independently of economic development levels, and the emergence of novel technologies enables diverse business to explore new business model (Ali et al., 2020). There has been a movement towards anticipating a paradigm shift in technological frameworks to establish the groundwork for Web 3.0 and to incorporate these changes into business model (Yoo et al., 2022). To keep up with the paradigm shift on the technological front, companies are navigating significant growth in the business domains related to information collection, management, and storage. Moreover, digitalization has recently emerged as a new aspect in information investment, coinciding with the growth (Ali et al., 2020). In the situation of the changing landscape information and communication technology utilization, survival for businesses entails leveraging aspects if the innovation lifecycle. This involves applying new strategies based on it, introducing innovative business model, and harnessing digital technology (Kaijkawa et al., 2022). Non-Fungible Token (NFT) can be regarded as a prime example where the emergence of digital technology has reshaped business approaches for enterprises (Ali et al., 2023). |
| Keywords: | NFT, Means-end Chain analysis, Laddering, Entertainment Industry |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itsb24:302456 |
| By: | Martínez-de-Ibarreta, Carlos; Ruiz-Rua, Aurora; Gijón, Covadonga; Fernández-Bonilla, Fernando |
| Abstract: | This paper carries out an exhaustive analysis of the implementation of e-banking in Spain, the impact of the reduction of bank branches and how both phenomena affect the elderly and the rural world. This allows us to take a picture of the user affected by the digital divide when using e-banking and to get to know them to support them in the digitisation process. The study is conducted by developing a logit model with random effects and a complete descriptive study of the panel data from the survey on equipment and use of information and communication technologies in households between 2017 and 2021, obtaining very important results: the fewer bank branches per thousand inhabitants, the greater the propensity to use e-banking, age and the development of e-skills are a differentiating factor in the adoption of e-banking services, a strong gender gap remains, there is no deep implementation of the other tools provided by digital banking. It is necessary to enhance the financial and online knowledge of individuals to maximise their usefulness in the use of digital banking services. |
| Keywords: | traditional banking, online banking, consumers, survey data, econometric models |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itsb24:302528 |
| By: | Simplice A. Asongu (Yaoundé, Cameroon); Peter Agyemang-Mintah (Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates) |
| Abstract: | This research complements the extant literature on poverty and inequality by assessing the role ‘virtual social networks’ and ‘internet access in schools’ in mitigating the incidence of inequality on poverty. Using secondary data, the focus of the study is on developing countries and the empirical evidence is based on Tobit regressions. The study shows that inequality unconditionally increases poverty while ‘virtual social networks’ and ‘internet access in schools’ negatively moderate the effect of inequality on poverty. An extended analysis provides thresholds of ‘virtual social networks’ and ‘internet access in schools’ at which, the unconditional positive effect of inequality on poverty is completely dampened and above which, negative incidences on poverty are apparent. These attendant information technology thresholds are below average levels in the sampled countries. The study complements that extant literature by assessing the role of virtual social networks and internet access in schools in mitigating the incidence of inequality on poverty in developing countries. Policy implications are discussed in the light of Sustainable Development Goals. |
| Keywords: | information technology, inequality; poverty |
| JEL: | D10 D14 D31 D60 O30 |
| Date: | 2024–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:exs:wpaper:24/011 |
| By: | Ronak Jain; Samuel Stemper |
| Abstract: | We study the impact of global expansions in mobile internet access between 2000 and 2018 on student outcomes. We link geospatial data on the rollout of 3G mobile technology with over 2.5 million student test scores from 82 countries. Our findings indicate that the introduction of 3G coverage leads to substantial increases in smartphone ownership and internet usage among adolescents. Changes in 3G coverage lead to significant declines in test scores in math, reading, and science, with magnitudes roughly equivalent to the loss of one-quarter of a year of learning. We also find evidence of a reduction in the ease of making friends and a sense of belonging. |
| JEL: | I21 I25 I31 J24 L86 O33 |
| Date: | 2024–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zur:econwp:453 |
| By: | Elvis K. Ofori (Zhengzhou, Henan, China); Simplice A. Asongu (Johannesburg, South Africa); Ernest B. Ali (Ekaterinburg, Russia); Bright A. Gyamfi (Istanbul, Turkey); Isaac Ahakwa (Hefei, China) |
| Abstract: | Since the industrial era, the selection of energy sources to facilitate economic advancement has been criticized because of the resulting ecological calamity. This has prompted the introduction of radical approaches such as ISO 14001, which tackles the drivers of pollution. Therefore, this study analyses the ISO 14001 - environment nexus from three distinct points of view BRICS, MINT, and G7 countries from 1999-2020. Also, our work fills an extant gap in assessing structural change and innovation's role in augmenting the relationship. The Driscoll and Kraay (DK) estimator is employed as an analytical tool for cross-sectional dependence and slope homogeneity, while the fixed effects approach provides sufficient robustness checks on the findings. While some outcomes vary per bloc, others are relatively similar across the three (3) blocs. That is: (1) ISO 14001 shows an abatement portfolio for only the G7 bloc, and the Full sample. (2) Structural change showed potential for abating carbon emissions in all blocs. (3) Technology led to an increase in Pollution in all blocs except for the MINT economy. (4) ICT in the form of mobile phones also help reduce carbon emissions in all three blocs except for their composite. (5) Renewable energy helps reduce carbon emission in all blocs except for G7. ISO 14001 shows the potential to encourage green growth. As a result, policymakers should work to enhance ISO 14001 certification, which might serve as a management tool to promote sustainable development. |
| Keywords: | ISO 14001, Sustainable development, Structural change, Technology, BRICSMINT, G7 |
| Date: | 2024–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:exs:wpaper:24/014 |
| By: | Jiang, Peter |
| Abstract: | This research examines the effects of Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (CFDI) on fixed broadband and mobile cellular penetration rates using panel data from the "China Global Investment Tracker, " a dataset of publicly available CFDI transactions from 2005 to 2023. As CFDI grows to pre-COVID-19 levels, its impact on penetration rates may be influenced by the Chinese government's preferential treatment for its state-owned enterprises (SOE) and telecommunications companies. Policy makers interested in FDI liberalization would benefit from understanding the distinct consequences of FDI from different sources. Through panel data analysis, this paper estimates that CFDI has a positive relationship with fixed broadband subscriptions and a negative relationship with mobile cellular subscriptions. This paper also explores potential explanations for these trends and their policy implications. |
| Keywords: | Foreign direct investment, China, Telecommunications, Broadband, Cellular, Panel data |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:itsb24:302525 |
| By: | Prisca P Rutatola (Local Government Training Institute, Dodoma, Tanzania.); Getrude J Danieli (CBE - College of Business Education); Ismail A Changalima (UDOM - University of Dodoma [Tanzanie]) |
| Abstract: | The advancement of information technology has revolutionised most aspects of public procurement, including the way suppliers are involved in public procurement opportunities. This study explores the link between social influence and behavioural intention in the usage of the National e-Procurement System of Tanzania (NeST) among suppliers. The study also examines the moderating effect of top management support (TMS) in the relationship between social influence and behavioural intention. Based on cross-sectional data collected from 447 small and medium-sized enterprise suppliers in Dodoma and Dar es Salaam through structured questionnaires and analysed quantitatively using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), the study confirms the positive relationship between social influence and behavioural intention in e-procurement usage. Additionally, the study confirms that TMS strengthens the relationship between social influence and behavioural intention. Specifically, suppliers with a high level of TMS experience a greater effect of social influence on their behavioural intentions compared to those with a low level of TMS. Therefore, both social influence and TMS play significant roles in amplifying behavioural intention. These insights provide crucial implications for practitioners and policymakers who are involved in e-procurement, and academics interested in public procurement. |
| Keywords: | Behavioural intention, Electronic procurement, SME suppliers, Social influence, Top management support |
| Date: | 2024–06–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04683277 |