Texting among the bottom of the pyramid : facilitators and barriers to SMS use among the low-income mobile users in Asia
Date
2012-08
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Publisher
LIRNEasia, Colombo, LK
Abstract
Based on findings from the study, the paper analyzes mobile phone usage behaviour among the poor, as well as drawing practical implications for providers of SMS-based development services in the region. It analyzes user and non-user characteristics, and then presents a second analysis using structural equation modeling to examine the SMS user’s perceptions and decision-making processes. Patterns of a digital divide were found in relation to age, income, education and location. Bottom of pyramid (BOP) mobile users are less exposed to other text-based electronic communication and are therefore less adept at messaging through mobile devices.
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Keywords
BOP, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMIC GROWTH, POVERTY ALLEVIATION, LOW INCOME GROUPS, CELLULAR PHONES, SHORT MESSAGE SERVICE (SMS), BANGLADESH, PAKISTAN, INDIA, SRI LANKA, THAILAND, SOUTH ASIA, MOBILE PHONES