Rationalization of mobile telephony by small-scale entrepreneurs in Myanmar

ABSTRACT This paper examines the adoption and use of mobile communication among several dozen micro-entrepreneurs in Myanmar during the country’s transition into mobile communication. The objective of the paper was to examine whether mobile phone ownership facilitates the work of some micro-entrepreneurs and constrains the work of others. In addition, the paper examines the situation of those who were exploiting the ‘spillover efficiencies’ of mobile telephony by borrowing (sometimes for pay) the phones of others. The findings of this study suggest that the early adopters reap efficiency benefits while those who lag behind have a weaker position. The paper also examines examples of some small-scale ‘sideline’ activities enabled by the mobile phone, e.g., phone owners selling air-time to non-owners. At the same time, the affordances of the device threatened the core of other small-scale entrepreneurs.

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