Beyond the Digital Divide : Policy Analysis for Knowledge Societies

Purpose – In the first part of reporting our research on knowledge societies (Sharma et al. 2008), we overviewed a conceptual model for analyzing knowledge development. In this second part, we report the results of using our framework in the field for the purpose of formulating knowledge policies. Methodology / Approach – We use the conceptual framework of 13 dimensions for knowledge policy-making analysis and qualitative focus group discussions by means of what is known as a Knowledge SWOT Analysis. Such an exercise ordinarily determines what we term as net strength (strengths offset by weaknesses) and net opportunity (opportunities offset by threats). Findings – Our field research suggests that whereas quantitative indicators are very commonly used for the purpose of benchmarking and progress tracking, they are limited in terms of determining causes, effects and encapsulating good practices. Our framework providea a means for policy-makers and analysts to engage in discussion, debates, story-telling and scenario building in order to understand net strengths and opportunities. Research Limitations – We were limited by the time constraints of our focus group participants and that it was not feasible to conduct a K-SWOT of more than the 4 societies we have used for the reason that there were insufficient numbers of informed participants. Practical Implications – Developing the knowledge economy has to be more than a management of socio-economic indicators. Understanding the net strength and opportunity faced by a society in the context of a global knowledge economy allowed insights into gaps that may be addressed with appropriate knowledge policies. There is much work to be done in formulating implementable policy recommendations. Originality / Value of Paper – It is hoped that a useful and valid policy analysis tool for knowledge development has thus been described