The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the largest source of development assistance in the Americas, dedicated its flagship annual analysis of challenges in the region—Development in the Americas— to the role of ICTs in economic development.

The report “Development Connections: Unveiling the Impact of New Information Technologies” critically looks at how ICTs contributed to the success of 46 development projects in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) across multiple sectors: finance, health, institutions, education, poverty, and the environment.

The IDB hails the report as a landmark as it is “the first in the region to systematically apply strict statistical methods to measure how technologies affected project outcomes”. The report reinforced the view that ICTs are merely tools for economic development and social change. The IDB says there ought to be greater effort to boost capacity at the country level to effectively leverage ICTs. The Bank adds that physical infrastructure, institutions and regulations must be strengthened to realize the full economic and social benefits of ICTs.

This position reflects a theme that I have captured in a series of blog posts about bold policies in Kenya and Tanzania—and the need for a similar approach in Haiti. A clear ICT strategy with cross-sectoral backing will enable a vibrant ICT climate and foster economic expansion, plus unearth social benefits.

The report also echoed the need to focus on local realities, and adds that focusing on the latest technologies will not necessarily solve highly contextual problems. Another argument that I have proffered in previous blogs. The best solutions to many of the developing world’s intractable problems have and will continue to stem from the ingenious use of LOW END technologies. As leaders across LAC strive to bridge the digital divide, this report should serve as a reminder that although access is a vital part of the ICT frenzy, it will not be enough to boost economic growth. The development of human capital and setting clear policy goals that match the unique needs of countries and regions is vital.

The IDB’s report shows that the reality in LAC isn’t in tune with that fact. Less than 40 percent of the projects reviewed by the IDB showed strong benefit from the adoption of ICTs, while 61 percent benefited partially. If nothing else, this study should prompt greater interest in more robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of projects with an ICT component. It is time for a uniquely designed M&E approach for ICT projects!