An ordered probit analysis of factors promoting a regional information policy: the case of Japanese local governments

This paper empirically analyzes the factors which determine the success of regional information policies. Based upon our field research on 36 local governments in Japan, we examine how each factor contributes to successful implementation of regional information policy by using the ordered probit analysis. Generally speaking, it appears reasonable to assume that economic and financial factors are most important. However, the most important was found to be human factors such as the leadership taken by the heads of local governments. We comprehensively analyze why this is the case, contrary to what the theory suggests.