About dot-ORG: Access and Applications
The ICT revolution is bringing tremendous benefits to millions around the globe - but is also leaving millions behind, through a lack of access and a lack of relevant applications. dot-ORG works with USAID and USAID partners to help bridge these gaps, especially for women and the disadvantaged.
Access
Access to ICT means access to unprecedented information and communication opportunities. dot-ORG is working to expand access in three ways: by helping to create financially sustainable public access points to ICT, by expanding the coverage of Internet access, and by helping to create a large number of trained users.
Examples of ICT access activities include:
- Build and support the expansion of diverse models for sustainable access points, including telecenters, community learning centers, kiosks, etc.
- Strengthen institutional capacity of entrepreneurs, the private sector, NGOs, and government partners by integrating ICT into their programs and services.
- Expand community access to ICT, especially by women and under-served populations, through outreach and context-appropriate ICT uses.
- Train users on how to use ICT and what it can do for them.
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Applications
ICT access is only the first step toward making an impact on economic and social development. To achieve the potential benefits for developing countries, dot-ORG works to accelerate specific applications of ICT that improve equity within societies, support economic growth, and advance the efficiency and transparency of government services.
Examples of ICT applications are:
- Online information systems to support government service delivery and combat corruption, such as to improve customs agencies' processing of shipments and to implement improved voter registration systems.
- Tracking and certification tools for agricultural cooperatives to meet global organic production standards.
- Use of efficient communication and marketing methods for business-to-business and business-to-consumer e-commerce.
- In-service training for health workers, teachers, and local government employees in rural areas through CD-ROM or computer-based systems.
- Electronic networking and research for political advocacy and action.
- Using ICT applications to promote socially valuable outcomes, such as gender equity programs or workforce training for unemployed youth.
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DOT-COM Secretariat
The DOT-COM Secretariat, administered by AED, fosters communication between the DOT-COM Alliance, USAID, the 95+ Alliance partners, and the broader development community. The Secretariat also manages the DOT-COM Alliance web site (https://dot-com-alliance.org).
USAID Funding
Funding is provided by USAID's Bureau for Economic Growth, Agriculture, and Trade (Office of Energy and Information Technology and Office of Women in Development), Regional Bureaus, and Missions. Cooperative Agreement: GDG-A-00-01-00014-00
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Lead Organization
Core Partners
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Resource Partners
To provide expertise in the broad range of access and applications requirements, dot-ORG draws on the capabilities of over 60 partner organizations.
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Current Activities
Global
Africa
Asia and Near East
Europe and Eurasia
Latin America and Caribbean
Tools, Documents, & Presentations
For more information, please contact:
USAID
Kevin G. Hayes, dot-ORG Project Manager
Email:
Tel: +1 202 712 1356
dot-ORG
Dennis Foote, Program Director, dot-ORG
Email:
Tel: +1 202 884-8708
Siobhan Green, Information & Dissemination Coordinator, DOT-COM Alliance
Email:
Tel: +1 202 884-8948
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