A model for rural and remote information and communication technologies: a Canadian exploration

While Canada boasts one of the most advanced information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructures, its rural and remote areas are lagging behind. Rural and remote ICTs development is presented as an uncharted domain. A model for rural and remote ICTs is proposed describing the interrelationships among policy, organizational, community, and technological dimensions. The model served as a guide to prepare three case studies that are briefly described. Several principles are described as strategic policy and organizational insights into how rural and remote communities can harness ICTs. The article concludes with a hypothesis highlighting the role of mediating organizations to secure affordable and relevant ICT services and applications for rural and remote communities.

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