American Research Journal of Computer Science and Information Technology

Research Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to sheds new light on the importance of information and communication technology infrastructure and its significant role in establishing an information-based society. It intendeds to focus on the current state of ICT infrastructure in developing countries and discuss its potency and influence on enhancing the competitiveness and productivity that needs to be improved in order to foster the total economy of those countries. It will also concentrate on the digital divide between advanced countries and third world nations. This paper aims to accomplish another goal related directly to Action Plan that might be formulated to lead to an information society in developing countries and the Arabic speaking world. This, in turn, will reflect positively on the economy of developing countries and assist in establishing the targeted knowledge - based society as a forward step. The objective of this paper is to draw an outline for the transition route which should take place in developing countries in order to establish an information - based society as the transition route has become a compulsory corridor and not a matter of choice. It is also essential to point out in this context that this paper will suggest different ways and approaches that might assist the Arab states in the transition course by implementing policies and strategies derived from the recommendations of the World Summit on the Information Society.

Methodology / Approach: The design of this paper is based on different tools such as personal readings of intellectual production, literature review, experience, and the insights of other researchers and experts in the scope of ICTs. In addition to that, the paper is also based on the recommendations of the World Summit on the Information Society which was held in two phases. The first phase took place in Geneva during 2003 and the second in Tunis during 2005. The main objective of WSIS was to bridge the digital divide between developing and developed countries and to promote the creation of an equitable and all-inclusive information society.

Research Implications: This paper may assist ICT policy makers as well as information policy makers in the third world countries to develop innovative guiding principles that position ICT infrastructures and information technology applications such as E-learning, E-business, E-commerce, E-health, E-government and so on, as a part of a strategic plan. This, in turn, is expecting to assist in solving a lot of problems associated with weakness of access to up-to-date information required for improving the current situation and to encourage the adoption of ICT in those countries.

Originality / Value: This paper adds new information and deepens understanding of a significant issue. It is the first of its kind to provide information and considerable insights on the current scenario of ICT infrastructures in developing countries. It indicates also existing obstacles, barriers, difficulties, suggestion, and recommendations for further development.

Findings and Conclusion: The paper reveals that effective adoption of ICT in developing countries will accelerate the level of knowledge acquisition and consequently improve national development. The paper also concludes with a proposal for developing and enhancing the current scenario by adopting some programs that can facilitate achieving the targeted goals and highlights important policy considerations relevant to ICTs infrastructure development.