E‐commerce and socio‐economic development: conceptualizing the link

Purpose E‐commerce is diffusing into developing countries (DCs), and is assumed to help deliver the international development agenda. But how can the connection between e‐commerce and socio‐economic development be conceptualised? The aim of this paper is to analyse that connection by drawing from the development studies discipline to take a broader perspective on e‐commerce than that so far provided by firm‐level research. Design/methodology/approach The authors adopt a literature survey approach, drawing their conceptual foundations from development studies, and supplementing this from the e‐commerce literature. Findings The paper develops a new, integrated model that explains the way in which e‐commerce can contribute to socio‐economic development. Research limitations/implications This new model can help provide a foundation for future research on e‐commerce in DCs; research on e‐commerce policy as well as impact assessment research. Practical implications The discussion and model provide development agencies, governments, consultants and business people working in DCs with a clearer sense of the contribution e‐commerce can make; assisting them in prioritization, planning, and evaluation of e‐commerce projects. Originality/value The paper provides the first integrated perspective on the broader contribution of e‐commerce to the growth and development of DCs.