USAID's Global Broadband and Innovations program (GBI) hosts a monthly series, called Tech Talks. These events bring ICT4D professionals together to learn more about the successful implementation of information and communication technologies for social and economic growth.
In this event from Jan 2012, Pamela Riley of Abt Associates discusses the ins and outs of working with local mobile network operators.
The description of the event is as follows:
As USAID explores effective uses of mobiles for development, mobile network operators (MNOs) are actively exploring how to best position them- selves as partners in development projects. Using examples from Nicaragua, Bangladesh, Uganda and Pakistan, this TECHTalk discussion will touch upon:
• Trade-offs between engaging CSR departments vs commercial business units
• Pros and cons of exclusivity clauses
• Operator concerns, incentives and barriers
This document outlines essential operations for driving local business in international markets. It discusses factors for success including having a regional strategy, integrated business development, marketing and communications, and leveraging social media. It provides examples of strategies for these areas, such as engaging stakeholders, developing targeted messages, using innovative channels, and ensuring customer service and membership programs address local needs. The key is to continuously engage customers and members through a proximity to their needs.
Making Telecentres Sustainable: Sharing BIID Experiences in Bangladeshtistalks
BIID Network is a pioneer in the adoption of e-health and e-agriculture services in Bangladesh. This webinar explains the different services and the necessary steps to develop the business model in the organization.
MEDA Technology for Financial Services April 2013chrissiy
MEDA is working on the cutting edge of using technology to bring financial services to the 2.5 billion people worldwide that are currently unbanked. Read here about our projects in Zambia, Nicaragua, Haiti, and Afghanistan and what we're learning about leveraging mobile phones, prepaid cards, and vouchers to promote client-focused product innovation.
Bringing Communications to the Rural EdgeIntegra LLC
This document summarizes a presentation on bringing low-cost telecommunications solutions to remote communities. It discusses the challenges of connecting the billions of rural inhabitants in developing countries, including lack of power infrastructure and high costs of satellite backhaul and site construction. It then presents a new solution using low-capital and low-operating cost base stations powered by solar energy, with optimized local traffic to reduce satellite backhaul costs by 50%. Key features that lower costs include on-demand power control, power monitoring and adaptation, and traffic-dependent power control. The solution aims to connect the most remote populations in a self-sustaining way.
Partnerships for development have become increasingly important for implementing ICT4D initiatives. But despite at least 15 years of such activities, organizations keep reinventing the wheel, and there is little agreement on the real benefits that such partnerships can offer.
Join GBI and special guest speaker Tim Unwin, as we explore:
• what makes ICT4D partnerships successful,
• how they can be designed for
maximum impact,
• how they have evolved, and
• when alternative arrangements
would be more effective.
Featured Speaker
Tim Unwin, CEO of Commonwealth Telecommunications Organization
This document discusses improving women's access to information and communication technologies (ICTs). It notes that ICTs are not gender-neutral and that ignoring gender can exacerbate inequality. Men and women access and use ICTs differently due to factors like availability, social expectations, education, and resources. Improving gender equality in ICT requires collecting better gender-disaggregated data, questioning assumptions, and using ICTs to address barriers facing women. The example of mobile apps is discussed, with 10 questions presented to help build apps that women will actually use, such as considering literacy, affordability, and cultural barriers. Overall recommendations include designing for women's needs, leveraging existing platforms, and planning for awareness and long-term
New ICT solutions for agricultural development are being developed at break-neck speed, and its hard to keep track of what’s out there, what works, and how it best fits into your project. At this month’s Tech Talk, GBI will demonstrate how ICT applications can complement a value chain approach to agricultural development, and we will bring in users and developers of these apps to explain their tools and how they are implemented. We’ll also unveil a new and useful interactive tool “Ag Apps Along the Value Chain,” that maps a collected inventory of over 120 apps and ICT solutions along the agricultural value chain.
This document outlines essential operations for driving local business in international markets. It discusses factors for success including having a regional strategy, integrated business development, marketing and communications, and leveraging social media. It provides examples of strategies for these areas, such as engaging stakeholders, developing targeted messages, using innovative channels, and ensuring customer service and membership programs address local needs. The key is to continuously engage customers and members through a proximity to their needs.
Making Telecentres Sustainable: Sharing BIID Experiences in Bangladeshtistalks
BIID Network is a pioneer in the adoption of e-health and e-agriculture services in Bangladesh. This webinar explains the different services and the necessary steps to develop the business model in the organization.
MEDA Technology for Financial Services April 2013chrissiy
MEDA is working on the cutting edge of using technology to bring financial services to the 2.5 billion people worldwide that are currently unbanked. Read here about our projects in Zambia, Nicaragua, Haiti, and Afghanistan and what we're learning about leveraging mobile phones, prepaid cards, and vouchers to promote client-focused product innovation.
Bringing Communications to the Rural EdgeIntegra LLC
This document summarizes a presentation on bringing low-cost telecommunications solutions to remote communities. It discusses the challenges of connecting the billions of rural inhabitants in developing countries, including lack of power infrastructure and high costs of satellite backhaul and site construction. It then presents a new solution using low-capital and low-operating cost base stations powered by solar energy, with optimized local traffic to reduce satellite backhaul costs by 50%. Key features that lower costs include on-demand power control, power monitoring and adaptation, and traffic-dependent power control. The solution aims to connect the most remote populations in a self-sustaining way.
Partnerships for development have become increasingly important for implementing ICT4D initiatives. But despite at least 15 years of such activities, organizations keep reinventing the wheel, and there is little agreement on the real benefits that such partnerships can offer.
Join GBI and special guest speaker Tim Unwin, as we explore:
• what makes ICT4D partnerships successful,
• how they can be designed for
maximum impact,
• how they have evolved, and
• when alternative arrangements
would be more effective.
Featured Speaker
Tim Unwin, CEO of Commonwealth Telecommunications Organization
This document discusses improving women's access to information and communication technologies (ICTs). It notes that ICTs are not gender-neutral and that ignoring gender can exacerbate inequality. Men and women access and use ICTs differently due to factors like availability, social expectations, education, and resources. Improving gender equality in ICT requires collecting better gender-disaggregated data, questioning assumptions, and using ICTs to address barriers facing women. The example of mobile apps is discussed, with 10 questions presented to help build apps that women will actually use, such as considering literacy, affordability, and cultural barriers. Overall recommendations include designing for women's needs, leveraging existing platforms, and planning for awareness and long-term
New ICT solutions for agricultural development are being developed at break-neck speed, and its hard to keep track of what’s out there, what works, and how it best fits into your project. At this month’s Tech Talk, GBI will demonstrate how ICT applications can complement a value chain approach to agricultural development, and we will bring in users and developers of these apps to explain their tools and how they are implemented. We’ll also unveil a new and useful interactive tool “Ag Apps Along the Value Chain,” that maps a collected inventory of over 120 apps and ICT solutions along the agricultural value chain.
The document summarizes MEDA's Techno-Links project which aims to increase access to financial services and agricultural technologies for over 200,000 poor households and smallholder farmers. The project works with 22 private sector partners in three countries. The summary outlines five key elements of effective private sector engagement for development projects based on lessons from Techno-Links: effective cross-sector communication, investing in mutually beneficial partnerships, advancing gender-inclusive business models, bringing a business approach to measuring results, and using creative information sharing for improved business practices.
CSO Partners in collaboration with CII conducted a CSR Online Educational Series exclusively for NGOs. This is the second presentation in the series
It covers the following topic
- Opportunities and Challenges of Partnership
- Selection of Partners and Cause Alignment
- Building and Managing Effective Partnership
- Case Example
Facilitate innovation in e-Agriculture: Sharing e-Krishok and MEAS ExperiencesMEAS
This document discusses facilitating innovation in e-Agriculture through sharing experiences of e-Krishok and MEAS. It outlines the partnership between MEAS/USAID and BIID to work beyond traditional collaboration, including jointly developing ICT strategies and supporting the implementation of Farmbook in Bangladesh. The key points discuss contextualization, demand stimulation, incentives, demonstration and business models when using ICT as a decision making and knowledge dissemination tool for farmers, extension officers and organizations through an integrated approach.
Bharti Airtel, India's largest telecommunications company, has engaged IconPR to handle its public relations services in the Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand regions of India. IconPR will work to enhance Airtel's brand image, increase awareness of its diverse service offerings, and manage any potential crises in the region through 2015. Key objectives include strengthening Airtel's leadership position, expanding its customer base particularly in rural areas, and addressing competitive threats in certain districts of Uttar Pradesh. IconPR will utilize traditional and digital PR tools to achieve these goals and build favorable media coverage and public opinion of Airtel over the long term.
Genesis BM is a corporate responsibility consulting firm that specializes in helping companies integrate social and environmental strategies into their core business objectives. They define corporate responsibility as creating business value and positive social change by addressing stakeholder needs across the entire supply chain. Their services include conducting research, developing strategies and frameworks, managing community investment programs, and measuring and reporting on outcomes. They have worked with various industries on projects related to issues like malnutrition, waste management, sustainable agriculture, and community engagement.
Case Study - Making Markets Work in BangladeshPMSD Roadmap
The ‘Marking markets work for smallholder farms and rural producers’ project focussed on increasing income and employment opportunities for marginalised rural communities in Bangladesh’s dairy sector.
DairyNet is a network that promotes the development of smallholder dairy farms in Bangladesh by developing the dairy value chain. Its overall objective is to make markets work for the poor by developing service markets, generating income, and increasing competitiveness for actors in the dairy market using a value chain approach. DairyNet partners include CARE Bangladesh, Plan International Bangladesh, Practical Action Bangladesh, and Intercooperation Bangladesh. DairyNet focuses on capacity building, financial services, private sector engagement, breed improvement, and improving dairy policies, especially in northern Bangladesh. It also organizes workshops to develop partnerships and provide suggestions to stakeholders.
RDU works to:
- Identify strategies to improve existing operations and products
- Assess feasibility for new products through market research and consumer insight
- Design and pilot new products and processes
- Explore and manage “finance-plus” initiatives and partnerships
This document provides an overview of Voice Tel Tech (VTT), an international consultancy firm established in 1992 that provides strategy and management services for development projects. It discusses VTT's portfolio and expertise in areas like monitoring and evaluation, economic development, health, and more. The document also lists some of VTT's recent projects in sectors like livelihoods, economic growth, and health, with descriptions of the objectives and solutions provided.
This document provides an overview of SIDBI's cluster development approach and its partnership with GTZ under the MSME Finance and Development Program (MSMEFDP). It discusses key achievements of the program including improving competitiveness through business development services, institutional capacity building, skill development, and promoting energy efficiency. It highlights innovative tools developed through the program and experiential lessons learned around ensuring sustainability, customizing support to cluster needs, and facilitating ownership of cluster actors. The document also outlines priority areas for the next phase of the partnership like scaling up innovative financing models, advancing sector-specific strategies, and leveraging international partnerships and best practices.
This document summarizes key learnings from the 7th Microinsurance International Conference in Brazil. It discusses innovations in microinsurance (MI) products in Latin America, including insurance linked to remittances, natural disasters, and specific health issues. MI distribution through partnerships with telecommunications companies and retailers is highlighted. The use of technology like mobile phones is described to help address challenges of accessibility, enrollment, billing, and customer relationships in MI. The document also discusses partnerships, regulations, and opportunities to expand MI in the Philippines, including through the use of mobile technology and deposit-linked products.
The Affiliate Marketing Council held its assembly meeting on July 26th 2012. The agenda included reviewing the council's 2012 activities and looking ahead to 2013. Key discussions were around upcoming legislation, standards, and a major new performance marketing industry study. The meeting notes indicate affiliate spending is increasing, with many advertisers expecting commission payments to rise in 2013.
NRT 2011: Overview of MFTransparency - Transparent Pricing InitiativeMABSIV
NRT 2011
May 23-24, 2011
Manila
Session 3:
The Price is Right
By: Ms. Laila Deles,
Research Associate/Project Manager for MFTransparency's Transparent Pricing Initiative
AIESEC Romania partners see the organization as enthusiastic, integer, performing, and developing the leaders of the next generation. Partners note that AIESEC members are adaptable and beneficial, and that interactions with AIESEC have been valuable for their organizations. To strengthen partnerships, AIESEC Romania will focus on developing long-term partnerships, product development, and account management by delivering on promises to partners.
The document discusses the holistic approach of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) in responding to challenges facing cooperatives. It discusses the CDA's role in four areas: socio-economics, resource management, basic utilities/services, and social justice and equity. The CDA aims to empower cooperatives, create a conducive policy environment, and integrate cooperativism into development processes. Cooperativism is presented as a transformative approach that can develop human potential, harness collective energies, and build sustainability. The CDA is positioned as the lead agency to advance cooperativism through empowerment, ecologically sustainable and socially equitable development, and as a vehicle for peace, unity and cooperation.
Amit Kumar has over 10 years of experience working in renewable energy and rural development. He currently works as a consultant for Pragnya Urja Pvt. Ltd. in Bihar and Jharkhand, where his responsibilities include liaising with government agencies, developing energy projects, and identifying private consumers. Previously he worked for GIZ in Chhattisgarh leading the implementation of a rural electrification project using renewable energy. He has also worked for CTRAN Consulting and in marketing and sales roles in the insurance industry.
This is a comprehensive learning and development programme for providers to prepare them for personalisation and to help them make the necessary cultural and organisational changes. It will be run by an alliance of provider organisations and regional and national personalisation experts and administered by the Tyne & Wear Care Alliance.
Innovative Financing Mechanisms and Effective Management of Risk for Partners...CORE Group
The document summarizes the Utkrisht Development Impact Bond in India, which aims to improve quality of care in private maternity facilities. It discusses how impact bonds can mobilize private capital for development by lowering investment risk. The Utkrisht bond provides funds for accrediting 360-440 private facilities over 3 years. Facilities receive quality improvement support and investors are repaid based on the number of facilities accredited. Early lessons show facilities are motivated to improve if it grows their business and they receive support meeting standards. The bond also provides a framework for continuously improving the project and managing risks between partners.
This document discusses how governments can become "Living Governments" to better address the needs of citizens in the digital age. It defines a Living Government as one that is anticipatory, enabling, and connects with citizens and other organizations. It emphasizes that governments must go beyond just digitizing services and instead empower citizens by understanding their goals and circumstances. The document also highlights findings from research in Singapore that citizens are willing to share more personal data and expect more personalized, innovative services from both the public and private sectors working together.
Maruthi Prithivirajan, Head of ASEAN & IN Solution Architecture, Neo4j
Get an inside look at the latest Neo4j innovations that enable relationship-driven intelligence at scale. Learn more about the newest cloud integrations and product enhancements that make Neo4j an essential choice for developers building apps with interconnected data and generative AI.
The document summarizes MEDA's Techno-Links project which aims to increase access to financial services and agricultural technologies for over 200,000 poor households and smallholder farmers. The project works with 22 private sector partners in three countries. The summary outlines five key elements of effective private sector engagement for development projects based on lessons from Techno-Links: effective cross-sector communication, investing in mutually beneficial partnerships, advancing gender-inclusive business models, bringing a business approach to measuring results, and using creative information sharing for improved business practices.
CSO Partners in collaboration with CII conducted a CSR Online Educational Series exclusively for NGOs. This is the second presentation in the series
It covers the following topic
- Opportunities and Challenges of Partnership
- Selection of Partners and Cause Alignment
- Building and Managing Effective Partnership
- Case Example
Facilitate innovation in e-Agriculture: Sharing e-Krishok and MEAS ExperiencesMEAS
This document discusses facilitating innovation in e-Agriculture through sharing experiences of e-Krishok and MEAS. It outlines the partnership between MEAS/USAID and BIID to work beyond traditional collaboration, including jointly developing ICT strategies and supporting the implementation of Farmbook in Bangladesh. The key points discuss contextualization, demand stimulation, incentives, demonstration and business models when using ICT as a decision making and knowledge dissemination tool for farmers, extension officers and organizations through an integrated approach.
Bharti Airtel, India's largest telecommunications company, has engaged IconPR to handle its public relations services in the Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand regions of India. IconPR will work to enhance Airtel's brand image, increase awareness of its diverse service offerings, and manage any potential crises in the region through 2015. Key objectives include strengthening Airtel's leadership position, expanding its customer base particularly in rural areas, and addressing competitive threats in certain districts of Uttar Pradesh. IconPR will utilize traditional and digital PR tools to achieve these goals and build favorable media coverage and public opinion of Airtel over the long term.
Genesis BM is a corporate responsibility consulting firm that specializes in helping companies integrate social and environmental strategies into their core business objectives. They define corporate responsibility as creating business value and positive social change by addressing stakeholder needs across the entire supply chain. Their services include conducting research, developing strategies and frameworks, managing community investment programs, and measuring and reporting on outcomes. They have worked with various industries on projects related to issues like malnutrition, waste management, sustainable agriculture, and community engagement.
Case Study - Making Markets Work in BangladeshPMSD Roadmap
The ‘Marking markets work for smallholder farms and rural producers’ project focussed on increasing income and employment opportunities for marginalised rural communities in Bangladesh’s dairy sector.
DairyNet is a network that promotes the development of smallholder dairy farms in Bangladesh by developing the dairy value chain. Its overall objective is to make markets work for the poor by developing service markets, generating income, and increasing competitiveness for actors in the dairy market using a value chain approach. DairyNet partners include CARE Bangladesh, Plan International Bangladesh, Practical Action Bangladesh, and Intercooperation Bangladesh. DairyNet focuses on capacity building, financial services, private sector engagement, breed improvement, and improving dairy policies, especially in northern Bangladesh. It also organizes workshops to develop partnerships and provide suggestions to stakeholders.
RDU works to:
- Identify strategies to improve existing operations and products
- Assess feasibility for new products through market research and consumer insight
- Design and pilot new products and processes
- Explore and manage “finance-plus” initiatives and partnerships
This document provides an overview of Voice Tel Tech (VTT), an international consultancy firm established in 1992 that provides strategy and management services for development projects. It discusses VTT's portfolio and expertise in areas like monitoring and evaluation, economic development, health, and more. The document also lists some of VTT's recent projects in sectors like livelihoods, economic growth, and health, with descriptions of the objectives and solutions provided.
This document provides an overview of SIDBI's cluster development approach and its partnership with GTZ under the MSME Finance and Development Program (MSMEFDP). It discusses key achievements of the program including improving competitiveness through business development services, institutional capacity building, skill development, and promoting energy efficiency. It highlights innovative tools developed through the program and experiential lessons learned around ensuring sustainability, customizing support to cluster needs, and facilitating ownership of cluster actors. The document also outlines priority areas for the next phase of the partnership like scaling up innovative financing models, advancing sector-specific strategies, and leveraging international partnerships and best practices.
This document summarizes key learnings from the 7th Microinsurance International Conference in Brazil. It discusses innovations in microinsurance (MI) products in Latin America, including insurance linked to remittances, natural disasters, and specific health issues. MI distribution through partnerships with telecommunications companies and retailers is highlighted. The use of technology like mobile phones is described to help address challenges of accessibility, enrollment, billing, and customer relationships in MI. The document also discusses partnerships, regulations, and opportunities to expand MI in the Philippines, including through the use of mobile technology and deposit-linked products.
The Affiliate Marketing Council held its assembly meeting on July 26th 2012. The agenda included reviewing the council's 2012 activities and looking ahead to 2013. Key discussions were around upcoming legislation, standards, and a major new performance marketing industry study. The meeting notes indicate affiliate spending is increasing, with many advertisers expecting commission payments to rise in 2013.
NRT 2011: Overview of MFTransparency - Transparent Pricing InitiativeMABSIV
NRT 2011
May 23-24, 2011
Manila
Session 3:
The Price is Right
By: Ms. Laila Deles,
Research Associate/Project Manager for MFTransparency's Transparent Pricing Initiative
AIESEC Romania partners see the organization as enthusiastic, integer, performing, and developing the leaders of the next generation. Partners note that AIESEC members are adaptable and beneficial, and that interactions with AIESEC have been valuable for their organizations. To strengthen partnerships, AIESEC Romania will focus on developing long-term partnerships, product development, and account management by delivering on promises to partners.
The document discusses the holistic approach of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) in responding to challenges facing cooperatives. It discusses the CDA's role in four areas: socio-economics, resource management, basic utilities/services, and social justice and equity. The CDA aims to empower cooperatives, create a conducive policy environment, and integrate cooperativism into development processes. Cooperativism is presented as a transformative approach that can develop human potential, harness collective energies, and build sustainability. The CDA is positioned as the lead agency to advance cooperativism through empowerment, ecologically sustainable and socially equitable development, and as a vehicle for peace, unity and cooperation.
Amit Kumar has over 10 years of experience working in renewable energy and rural development. He currently works as a consultant for Pragnya Urja Pvt. Ltd. in Bihar and Jharkhand, where his responsibilities include liaising with government agencies, developing energy projects, and identifying private consumers. Previously he worked for GIZ in Chhattisgarh leading the implementation of a rural electrification project using renewable energy. He has also worked for CTRAN Consulting and in marketing and sales roles in the insurance industry.
This is a comprehensive learning and development programme for providers to prepare them for personalisation and to help them make the necessary cultural and organisational changes. It will be run by an alliance of provider organisations and regional and national personalisation experts and administered by the Tyne & Wear Care Alliance.
Innovative Financing Mechanisms and Effective Management of Risk for Partners...CORE Group
The document summarizes the Utkrisht Development Impact Bond in India, which aims to improve quality of care in private maternity facilities. It discusses how impact bonds can mobilize private capital for development by lowering investment risk. The Utkrisht bond provides funds for accrediting 360-440 private facilities over 3 years. Facilities receive quality improvement support and investors are repaid based on the number of facilities accredited. Early lessons show facilities are motivated to improve if it grows their business and they receive support meeting standards. The bond also provides a framework for continuously improving the project and managing risks between partners.
This document discusses how governments can become "Living Governments" to better address the needs of citizens in the digital age. It defines a Living Government as one that is anticipatory, enabling, and connects with citizens and other organizations. It emphasizes that governments must go beyond just digitizing services and instead empower citizens by understanding their goals and circumstances. The document also highlights findings from research in Singapore that citizens are willing to share more personal data and expect more personalized, innovative services from both the public and private sectors working together.
Maruthi Prithivirajan, Head of ASEAN & IN Solution Architecture, Neo4j
Get an inside look at the latest Neo4j innovations that enable relationship-driven intelligence at scale. Learn more about the newest cloud integrations and product enhancements that make Neo4j an essential choice for developers building apps with interconnected data and generative AI.
In his public lecture, Christian Timmerer provides insights into the fascinating history of video streaming, starting from its humble beginnings before YouTube to the groundbreaking technologies that now dominate platforms like Netflix and ORF ON. Timmerer also presents provocative contributions of his own that have significantly influenced the industry. He concludes by looking at future challenges and invites the audience to join in a discussion.
Threats to mobile devices are more prevalent and increasing in scope and complexity. Users of mobile devices desire to take full advantage of the features
available on those devices, but many of the features provide convenience and capability but sacrifice security. This best practices guide outlines steps the users can take to better protect personal devices and information.
Communications Mining Series - Zero to Hero - Session 1DianaGray10
This session provides introduction to UiPath Communication Mining, importance and platform overview. You will acquire a good understand of the phases in Communication Mining as we go over the platform with you. Topics covered:
• Communication Mining Overview
• Why is it important?
• How can it help today’s business and the benefits
• Phases in Communication Mining
• Demo on Platform overview
• Q/A
Securing your Kubernetes cluster_ a step-by-step guide to success !KatiaHIMEUR1
Today, after several years of existence, an extremely active community and an ultra-dynamic ecosystem, Kubernetes has established itself as the de facto standard in container orchestration. Thanks to a wide range of managed services, it has never been so easy to set up a ready-to-use Kubernetes cluster.
However, this ease of use means that the subject of security in Kubernetes is often left for later, or even neglected. This exposes companies to significant risks.
In this talk, I'll show you step-by-step how to secure your Kubernetes cluster for greater peace of mind and reliability.
Observability Concepts EVERY Developer Should Know -- DeveloperWeek Europe.pdfPaige Cruz
Monitoring and observability aren’t traditionally found in software curriculums and many of us cobble this knowledge together from whatever vendor or ecosystem we were first introduced to and whatever is a part of your current company’s observability stack.
While the dev and ops silo continues to crumble….many organizations still relegate monitoring & observability as the purview of ops, infra and SRE teams. This is a mistake - achieving a highly observable system requires collaboration up and down the stack.
I, a former op, would like to extend an invitation to all application developers to join the observability party will share these foundational concepts to build on:
Building RAG with self-deployed Milvus vector database and Snowpark Container...Zilliz
This talk will give hands-on advice on building RAG applications with an open-source Milvus database deployed as a docker container. We will also introduce the integration of Milvus with Snowpark Container Services.
Pushing the limits of ePRTC: 100ns holdover for 100 daysAdtran
At WSTS 2024, Alon Stern explored the topic of parametric holdover and explained how recent research findings can be implemented in real-world PNT networks to achieve 100 nanoseconds of accuracy for up to 100 days.
Dr. Sean Tan, Head of Data Science, Changi Airport Group
Discover how Changi Airport Group (CAG) leverages graph technologies and generative AI to revolutionize their search capabilities. This session delves into the unique search needs of CAG’s diverse passengers and customers, showcasing how graph data structures enhance the accuracy and relevance of AI-generated search results, mitigating the risk of “hallucinations” and improving the overall customer journey.
“An Outlook of the Ongoing and Future Relationship between Blockchain Technologies and Process-aware Information Systems.” Invited talk at the joint workshop on Blockchain for Information Systems (BC4IS) and Blockchain for Trusted Data Sharing (B4TDS), co-located with with the 36th International Conference on Advanced Information Systems Engineering (CAiSE), 3 June 2024, Limassol, Cyprus.
Unlock the Future of Search with MongoDB Atlas_ Vector Search Unleashed.pdfMalak Abu Hammad
Discover how MongoDB Atlas and vector search technology can revolutionize your application's search capabilities. This comprehensive presentation covers:
* What is Vector Search?
* Importance and benefits of vector search
* Practical use cases across various industries
* Step-by-step implementation guide
* Live demos with code snippets
* Enhancing LLM capabilities with vector search
* Best practices and optimization strategies
Perfect for developers, AI enthusiasts, and tech leaders. Learn how to leverage MongoDB Atlas to deliver highly relevant, context-aware search results, transforming your data retrieval process. Stay ahead in tech innovation and maximize the potential of your applications.
#MongoDB #VectorSearch #AI #SemanticSearch #TechInnovation #DataScience #LLM #MachineLearning #SearchTechnology
Sudheer Mechineni, Head of Application Frameworks, Standard Chartered Bank
Discover how Standard Chartered Bank harnessed the power of Neo4j to transform complex data access challenges into a dynamic, scalable graph database solution. This keynote will cover their journey from initial adoption to deploying a fully automated, enterprise-grade causal cluster, highlighting key strategies for modelling organisational changes and ensuring robust disaster recovery. Learn how these innovations have not only enhanced Standard Chartered Bank’s data infrastructure but also positioned them as pioneers in the banking sector’s adoption of graph technology.
A tale of scale & speed: How the US Navy is enabling software delivery from l...sonjaschweigert1
Rapid and secure feature delivery is a goal across every application team and every branch of the DoD. The Navy’s DevSecOps platform, Party Barge, has achieved:
- Reduction in onboarding time from 5 weeks to 1 day
- Improved developer experience and productivity through actionable findings and reduction of false positives
- Maintenance of superior security standards and inherent policy enforcement with Authorization to Operate (ATO)
Development teams can ship efficiently and ensure applications are cyber ready for Navy Authorizing Officials (AOs). In this webinar, Sigma Defense and Anchore will give attendees a look behind the scenes and demo secure pipeline automation and security artifacts that speed up application ATO and time to production.
We will cover:
- How to remove silos in DevSecOps
- How to build efficient development pipeline roles and component templates
- How to deliver security artifacts that matter for ATO’s (SBOMs, vulnerability reports, and policy evidence)
- How to streamline operations with automated policy checks on container images
Alt. GDG Cloud Southlake #33: Boule & Rebala: Effective AppSec in SDLC using ...James Anderson
Effective Application Security in Software Delivery lifecycle using Deployment Firewall and DBOM
The modern software delivery process (or the CI/CD process) includes many tools, distributed teams, open-source code, and cloud platforms. Constant focus on speed to release software to market, along with the traditional slow and manual security checks has caused gaps in continuous security as an important piece in the software supply chain. Today organizations feel more susceptible to external and internal cyber threats due to the vast attack surface in their applications supply chain and the lack of end-to-end governance and risk management.
The software team must secure its software delivery process to avoid vulnerability and security breaches. This needs to be achieved with existing tool chains and without extensive rework of the delivery processes. This talk will present strategies and techniques for providing visibility into the true risk of the existing vulnerabilities, preventing the introduction of security issues in the software, resolving vulnerabilities in production environments quickly, and capturing the deployment bill of materials (DBOM).
Speakers:
Bob Boule
Robert Boule is a technology enthusiast with PASSION for technology and making things work along with a knack for helping others understand how things work. He comes with around 20 years of solution engineering experience in application security, software continuous delivery, and SaaS platforms. He is known for his dynamic presentations in CI/CD and application security integrated in software delivery lifecycle.
Gopinath Rebala
Gopinath Rebala is the CTO of OpsMx, where he has overall responsibility for the machine learning and data processing architectures for Secure Software Delivery. Gopi also has a strong connection with our customers, leading design and architecture for strategic implementations. Gopi is a frequent speaker and well-known leader in continuous delivery and integrating security into software delivery.
Essentials of Automations: The Art of Triggers and Actions in FMESafe Software
In this second installment of our Essentials of Automations webinar series, we’ll explore the landscape of triggers and actions, guiding you through the nuances of authoring and adapting workspaces for seamless automations. Gain an understanding of the full spectrum of triggers and actions available in FME, empowering you to enhance your workspaces for efficient automation.
We’ll kick things off by showcasing the most commonly used event-based triggers, introducing you to various automation workflows like manual triggers, schedules, directory watchers, and more. Plus, see how these elements play out in real scenarios.
Whether you’re tweaking your current setup or building from the ground up, this session will arm you with the tools and insights needed to transform your FME usage into a powerhouse of productivity. Join us to discover effective strategies that simplify complex processes, enhancing your productivity and transforming your data management practices with FME. Let’s turn complexity into clarity and make your workspaces work wonders!
GraphSummit Singapore | The Future of Agility: Supercharging Digital Transfor...Neo4j
Leonard Jayamohan, Partner & Generative AI Lead, Deloitte
This keynote will reveal how Deloitte leverages Neo4j’s graph power for groundbreaking digital twin solutions, achieving a staggering 100x performance boost. Discover the essential role knowledge graphs play in successful generative AI implementations. Plus, get an exclusive look at an innovative Neo4j + Generative AI solution Deloitte is developing in-house.
3. Overview
Purpose of presentation
Mobile industry snapshot
Case studies
– Pakistan: SMS awareness campaign
– Bangladesh: National health information service
– Nicaragua: Test platform to improve patient tracking
– Uganda: Mobile payments
Wrap-up
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
5. Why Mobile is Important to USAID
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
6. Explosion in Development Uses
Beneficiaries Workforce Project
Management
Market pricing Training Supply chain
Health Remote Data collection
information supervision
mBanking Peer support Mapping
Election Resource Emergency
monitoring access response
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
7. Value Proposition for MNOs in
mDevelopment Programs
Brokered partnerships
Reputational capital with regulators
Risk protection
Services to enhance their brand
Evaluation research
Demand generation, aggregation, user preferences
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
8. Value proposition for USAID in MNO
partnerships
Reach into mass market through distribution
channels, market research
Brand-building skills and advertising budgets
Consumer trust as transaction partner
Rapid development and deployment of value-added
services
Incubation platform to leverage technology for social
good
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
9. Linking MNO and Development
Partner Needs
Characteristics that Implications for Development
drive MNOs Programs
• Urgency to recoup upfront • Demonstrate link to growth in subscribers,
investments network usage, loyalty
• Highly competitive • Address the different motives of market
leaders and newer entrants
• Pressure to differentiate, • Offer unique services, fail fast
product cycle 3-6 months
• Provide evidence of good citizenship
• Closely regulated
• Segment markets by age • Continue move toward integrated services,
and gender away from disease-specific programs | pg ‹#›
Abt Associates
10. Case Studies: Mobile interventions
to improve health outcomes
Pakistan: Free SMS Bangladesh: National
campaign to promote health message service
hygienic behaviors for pregnant women
Nicaragua: Enhancing
Uganda: Facilitating health infrastructure
mobile payments to with data tracking
malaria sprayers platform for maternal
care
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
11. Pakistan: SMS messages to reinforce
hygiene promotion program
Pakistan Safe Drinking
Water and Hygiene
Promotion Project
(PSDW-HPP) 2006-
2010
Behavior change
communications (BCC)
– Hygiene activities
through community
partners in 5 districts
with population 50m
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
12. Provision of mass market SMS to
build hygiene awareness
Project sought PPPs for mass media campaigns, and provision
of water treatment technologies.
Conducted roundtables with 17 cross-sector corporations:
educate them on needs, leverage their expertise
Partners included Unilever, Merck, Greenstar, Medentech
Pakistan leading MNO Mobilink (31% market share) expressed
strong interest, aligned with CSR objectives, signed MOU
RESULTS: 3m free SMS across 15 districts during 6
month period, provided extensive reach and exposure
in rural areas
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
13. Mobilink lessons learned
• Specificity re: timelines, deliverables in MOU language
• Early on lack of follow-through
• Continuous and ongoing communications is necessary
• MOUs not legally enforceable, need to demonstrate high
expectation, clear directives
Clarity of roles is critical
• Companies must assign human resources to implement, a
focal point for internal planning and coordination
• Long planning periods needed, ideally one year ahead
• Messages sent during project extension period
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
14. MAMA Bangladesh: National Health
Information Service
Initiated by USAID, White
House OTP in 2010,
launched as global
alliance with J&J in 2011
Bangladesh first country
Provide vital behavior
to launch, South Africa
change messages to new
and India in development
and expectant mothers
through mobile phones SHOPS project provided
assistance in coalition
formation
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
15. MAMA Bangladesh: Aponjon
Overview
Catalytic funding to attract
national leadership, cross-
sector partners
Locally owned, designed,
implemented, co-funded,
championed
Sustainable business
model combines user fees,
message advertising,
corporate sponsorships
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
16. MAMA Bangladesh Partners as of July 2011
Lead Partners
Implementing Partners Supporting Partners
TECHNOLOGY COORDINATION
CORPORATE
SPONSORS
OUTREACH - NGO
CONTENT
MOBILE OPERATORS
OUTREACH -
GOVERNMENT
ICDDR, B
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
MEDIA RESEARCH
17. Aponjon Service Description
17
Expectant women/ Users receive 2 Partner advertising and
new mothers sign health-related advocacy will drive
up for service messages weekly subscription levels
“Your baby needs an
“If you have any immunization this week
bleeding during this to stay healthy,
month, seek medical available free at all
attention right away” clinics”
Messages will provide critical life-saving
information, leading to improved in
health knowledge, behaviors and
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
outcomes
18. MAMA Bangladesh: MNO Outreach
Process initiation
– Conducted active outreach: Ambassador reception, pitch
meetings, government briefings
Articulating the benefits of novel service
– Broad alliance with international and local partners
– Extensive outreach through health partners and mass
media, opportunity to integrate with other services
Key focus on potential for revenue generation
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
19. MAMA Bangladesh:
Phase 1 MNO Negotiations
GrameenPhone reception was warmest
– CSR department history with health initiatives, MAMA
partners
– Had already developed a similar concept (stage-based
pregnancy messages) but it had not gotten it off the ground
– Most attractive partner because dominant MNO (46%
market share)
Other operators had limited interest without offer of
long-term exclusivity
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
20. MAMA Bangladesh:
Phase 1 MNO Negotiation Results
Coalition proposal
– Asked for large contribution ($250K cash/in-kind) in exchange for time-
bound exclusivity and high visibility in national media
Initial response to proposal took months
– Initiative was still in conceptual stage: no design documents, MOUs,
platform specifics
– Selling internally took time: both to top management, across affected
departments
Ultimately Grameenphone offered Design Phase support only,
contribution of free pilot airtime (~ $2K value)
– Connectivity through standard commercial revenue sharing terms
– Exclusivity offer withdrawn by Coalition
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
21. Lesson 1: Balancing CSR versus
Business Unit Opportunities
CSR departments generally have limited money,
power, influence over decision-makers
CSR team was not in a position to value and deliver
marketing commitments
MAMA coalition was not part of internal
Grameenphone deliberations
– Ability to emphasize revenue projections, integration with
other Grameenphone services
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
22. Negotiation Trade-offs
BUSINESS UNITS: CSR:
Needed for mainstreaming To prove the business case
• Faster to market, decentralized • More amendable to programming
decision making objectives focused on needs of
• Offers highly valuable non-cash beneficiaries
resources Build relationships
Technical Incubator for new ideas
Marketing Tax incentives for MNOs if pilot is
Distribution loss leader
• Requires more rigorous business • Priorities and budgets often set at
case regional level: long lead times
Metrics driven • Focus is short-term marketing and
• Brand –building advertising will be PR benefits
linked to revenue generation Favors events, tangible goods
• May not speak for relevant
implementing departments
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
23. Lesson 2: Exclusivity problematic in
platform design
Exclusive partnership agreements serve MNO need for
competitive advantage
– Assumed MNO would make greater investments in exchange
for rights to be sole operator associated with MAMA
Coalition intended for exclusivity to be short-term,
opening service to all operators within a year
– Consistent with guiding MAMA principles of broad public
access
In parallel with operator negotiations, began design and
development of software platform
– Interactive voice response (IVR) complex, raised concerns
about future scale up with all operators
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
24. Exclusivity Barriers and
Considerations
• Unexpected limits on access
• E.g. MAMA pilot location in Chittagong were
predominantly Robi subscribers, not Grameenphone
• National services need to accommodate different
charging capabilities
• E.g. three of six operators in Bangladesh could not
provide reverse billing for mobile terminated calls
• Design of scaled mobile interventions requires
inputs from all the operators
• E.g., variations in operator policies on remote platform
connectivity may require decentralized design
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
25. MAMA Bangladesh:
MNO Negotiations Phase 2 Strategy
Nonexclusive agreements with all operators
Develop customized marketing, distribution activities
– Complementary applications: co-branding SIM cards, linkages to
MNO branded services such as health hotlines
– More targetted segmentation: e.g. Banglalink focus on women;
Robi focus on rural, indigenous culture
– Pilot technical innovations, such as voiceSMS, VOIP
Ultimately MNO financial support will be tied to
documented MNO benefits
New subscribers
Less churn
Higher revenue per MAMA user
Goal is more generous revenue sharing for MAMA
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
26. Nicaragua mhealth demonstration
platform
• Objective to develop and
test mhealth platform
– To improve tracking
and case management
for pregnancy and
birth
USAID 4th Sector project
brokered agreement with
Ericsson, MNO Enitel,
NGOs
– Sept 2010 – Sept 2012
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
27. MNO role in Nicaragua project
Enitel is largest operator in a two player market,
owned by large regional carrier American Mobile
– Eager to build relationship with MOH, particularly for data
services
– Wanted platform to test voice data transmission
Enitel commitments in signed MOU
– Subsidize service and equipment charges
– Optimize communication protocols to support the
applications
– Expand mobile coverage to rural areas still without service
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
28. Nicaragua MNO Lesson 1
Progress flagged when key internal champion
promoted regionally, left Nicaragua
– Movement of senior management very common in dynamic
industry
– Project commitments were not broadly institutionalized
Solutions
– To build internal visibility & buy-in, need comprehensive
stakeholder communications, prepare regular updates for
MNO management
– Engage partners with scheduled site visits, frequent partner
meetings
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
29. Nicaragua Lesson 2
Business case for build out to new rural locations weak
– Objective to convince MOH of value in infrastructure
development for health improvement
– Project data alone does not secure long-term government
support, or address tensions such as tax policy
Solutions
– Change pilot locations: To maintain flexibility, adjusted terms to
test platform where mobile infrastructure already in place
– Identify new partnership benefits: e.g. convene workshops on
regulatory barriers, advocacy for policy change
– Independent evaluation on costs and benefits
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
30. Nicaragua Lesson 3
Project had retail needs not controlled by department
(interconnection) negotiating the MOU
– Enitel’s national structure decentralized into retail outlets
– Purchase of handsets delayed by lack of internal coordination,
disagreements over subsidy total value
– No process in place to authorize topping up airtime in locations
where phones used
Solutions
– Longer timeframes in workplan during deployment phase to
establish processes
– Specificity in MOU critical
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
31. Uganda: Payments for household
sprayers to combat malaria
Program overview
Approach to the MNOs
What we learned
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
32. Uganda IRS Overview
Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) is a cornerstone of
President’s Malaria Initiative program to reduce malaria-
related mortality
– 3 year program (2009-2012), spray 80% dwellings with
insecticide in NorthWest Uganda
– Twice per year, each campaign last 20-25 days
Challenge: total 3500 field workers to be paid each spray
cycle
– Most no bank accounts, those that did had to travel long
distances
Initial solution: drive truck with cash from village to village
– Safety and cost concerns
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
33. Uganda IRS challenge
Interim solution to contract with
PostBank
• No requirement for sprayers to
have accounts
Travels from village to village
Charged $1 per transaction
Objective: Switch to more
Cash dispensed from cost effective phone-based
“teller trucks” payment process
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
34. Uganda IRS: Approach to the MNOs
Mobile money utilizes mobile network for financial
transactions:
– Distribution structure is well positioned for high-volume, low
value transaction processes
– Spray operators all owned phones
Successes in Kenya (mPesa) and Philippines not yet
replicated in other countries
• Policy, infrastructure, regulatory hurdles
In Uganda, only MTN offered mobile money at that
time (June 2010)
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
35. Uganda IRS Lessons Learned
Critical mass needed for cost recovery in rural
trading centers for agent overhead
– Too early in the MTN product roll-out period: focus was still
in urban centers
– Would expect different result in 2012 as competitors begin
to saturate dense areas
Minimum per transaction mbanking pricing is costly
for low value payments
– Project pays to transfer, sprayers pay to cash out
– “Mobile teller” was more cost-effective for predictable pay
schedule
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
36. Wrap-Up
MNO partnership challenges and success factors not
unique
– Relationships must be nurtured, expectations clearly stated,
terms flexible
– Setbacks are universal, adaptability is essential
Case studies highlight early stage of mobile partnerships
– Ambiguity regarding how to maximize benefits for end users
and implementers
– Requires field-testing range of approaches, text cases
– Many additional examples from which to learn
Abt Associates | pg ‹#›
Purpose to share experiences negotiating with mobile operators, what it takes to work effectively with MNOs. May be a lot of collective knowledge in this room., like to check on familiarity & exposure to MNOs. Are these terms known: ARPU, VAS, VOIP, SMS, SIM card, mPESA, GSMAFor case studies, want to emphasize still early days, feeling our way, programs need seasoning, validation. No standardization. Learning across many dimensions – this is not a cookbook or roadmap, but rather an initial set of considerations and insights
Massive shift from growth in developed to developing world
USAID partnerships extend to system strengthening,R&D, demand generation, service provision, quality improvements
Why mobile operators are exploring development opportunities
Why USAID is forming alliances with mobile operators
Investments include spectrum fees, infrastructure, customer acquisition costs. Whether 2 or 10 licensed providers in a market, competition has resulted in price cuts, high budget marketingAirtime is airtime, commoditized industry, differentiation strategies include better signal coverage, novel pricing plans, unique value added serviceNeed to speak operator language: bottom-line driven, measure what is important to MNOs. One example of where we don’t speak same language is segmentation strategies. MNOs not aligned with development silos, want cross-cutting applications: women empowerment, mpayments
These examples are health but apply across all development topics: agriculture, clean water, nutrition, democracy, financeRepresentative of considerations in beginning stages. These are reference points, many other examples, some very large. Gates Fdn/GSMA funding a comprehensive mhealth initiative with 17 licensed operators, 30m consumers. Columbia University/UNICEP MVP in 10 countries has long track record with AirTel, MTN. Esoko (market price platform) new deal with Ghana MTN call center for farmers, based on years of collaborationChangamka (mobile health savings account) has deal with Orange to act as agents of the other. Safaricom is biggest provider but charges a lot for women to top up, Orange provides for free – seeking to increase market share.
This is a good example of common approach to MNOs: generic category campaign that address important public health issues and involve multiple private sector partners.
The project’s overarching strategy for public-private partnerships (PPPs) was to bring private sector organizations under the umbrella of PSDW-HPP to leverage their strengths, expertise, and resources to actively contribute to the Millennium Development Goal of significantly reducing the incidence of diarrhea through safe drinking water and hygiene promotion. Roundtables are good forum to identify potential benefits across a host of categories
First messages sent middle of the night, initially not well-orchestrated, sporadic, driven by MNO priorities, not project needs Secret sauce was rigorous project management: communications on deliverables, milestones, and timelines, relentless follow-upCorporate partners bring skepticism about project’s ability to deliver on schedule and within budget, partners will be tested
Purpose to reduce maternal & newborn mortality & morbidity through stage based health messages tied to delivery dateCharacterized by Focus on women Encourage country ownershipLeverage technology to support development goals Promote private sector engagement, research, innovationAdditional MAMA partners include mHealth Alliance, BabyCenter, UN FoundationSHOPs focuson coalition formation, business models, technology platform evolution
Aponjon service owned by local NGO, overseen by MOH led Advisory BoardEmphasis was on the end user – formative research demonstrating demand, active VAS market, high production value. Business model combined user fees and ad messages – forcing partners to respond to market preferences, not push solutions
Branded commercial mobile phone service. Women subscribe, receive two recorded messages per week such as importance of ANC visits, post-partum family planning
Started from scratch, novelty of initiative needed leap of faith by Founding Partners.Coalition set aggressive deadlines, sought early traction amid fluid roles.Initial outreach happened at time when no platform to show them, marketing strategy yet to be developed, partners yet to be signed, complex structure.Another hypothesis to be validated is whether MAMA subscription increases the “stickiness” of the service provider, making subscribers less likely to switch out their SIM cards. Operators benefit from increased “costs” of switching.
6-operator market, with top three owning > 80% market share
Coalition offered valuable assets to MNO including customer registration, vetted content, mass media exposure Business model based on conjecture Urgency for “quick win” in signing a Founding PartnerFactors which influenced GP response Predecessor service BBC Janala had negotiated discounted flat monthly rate, GP seriously underestimated volume, lost substantial incomeAt the time, government threatening huge tax increase, led to conservative revenue projections
Given untested business case, made sense to start with CSR, but proposition was better fit for business unit
Key advantage of commercial agreements is to access advertising budgets of MNOs: dominate the mass media market – TV, print, billboards, point of sale, celebrity endorsementsCSR departments likely not in a position to deliver
Advantages of MNO exclusivity clauses : incentivesfor financial support/discounts from standard commercial terms in exchange for national visibilityMNO drive for differentiation is intense: need distinction for commodity service
Goal is moregenerous revenue sharing, financial support for MAMA through unique MNO positioningThis has been key to the India Gates/GSMA effort. Each of the 17 operators was given a distinct role with no overlap. Some are providing health training module, some EMR, others consumer messaging. SO each get a small slice of the revenue. Currently MAMA revenue sharing agreement with Grameenphone is 50/50 – industry norm is 60 (telco)/40 (service provider).
The platform would enable HWs and patients to access database by phone, specifically to support pregnancy referral and patient follow-up. Include electronic medical records, SMS reminders and follow-up. This map shows maternal mortality ratio estimates in 2005 per 100,000 live birth, big disparity between rural and urban areas In looking at important maternal and neonatal health indicators, more than 2/3 of pregnancies are “caught” by the system at some point during the prenatal period and attended by a birth assistant of some kind, but only about 1/2 are being followed for an entire pregnancy or were seen for follow-up care during the post-birth period.
This case study represents example of what GSMA has been advocating with development agencies: don’t develop a solution and then go to MNOs, first come to MNO with a problem and invite cooperation in solution design. Higher buy-in, fit with MNO prioritiesEricsson initiated, provided mapping of gaps. 4th Sector provides management, stakeholder convening, dissemination. NGO SSI designs and builds the intervention.Enitel incentive to explore B2B market for mhealth hosting, regional visibility with American Mobile
Project’s chief point of contact (director of interconnection) left Nicaragua, replaced by more junior representative unable to make decisions without broader approvals. Prior to staff turnover, project had benefited from leadership of championMNOs particularly volatile, turnover needs to be anticipated. Contrast to pharmaceutical, consumer goods, media companies in which senior management more stable. Also example of overlap between regional strategy and national strategy – not clear where mdevelopment partnerships should reside
Idea is to remain responsive to partner needs, shift focus of partnership as needed. Nicaragua one of handful of countries whose laws prevent hosting data out of the country. Result is that cost-effective cloud services such as those offered by non-local technology NGOs (e.g. Dimagi) not available at scale, post real barriers to use of open source, low cost solutions.
Some operators ‘borrowed’ the account number of a friend but payments to bounce. Nov. 2009, 1500 operators sprayed 2 districts in 43 days
mPesa is the infamous example from Kenya, most countries playing catch up, dealing with numerous regulatory. Policy and infrastructure issues