Strategies for inclusive growth business models using information and communication technology

Abstract

The aim of the project is to study the business model employed by a number of inclusive growth firms riding on information and communication technology (ICTD). From this study, we intended to come up with a framework or a set of rules common across all these firms which led to the success or failure of the firms. The study mainly entailed desk or secondary research to understand the way the operations, business models, costs, backbone technology and scalability of these firms. For the purpose of in-depth analysis, 10 firms were chosen, out of which 8 are from India and 2 from Africa. Out of these 10 firms, DesiCrew has not been included in the analysis due to lack of operational information. A broad outline of its business model is however given in the report. Based on the analysis of these firms, we have compiled a list of 10 key success factors. These factors are common to more than one of these firms and hence can act as a set of rules for firms in this sector. Though we cannot say that the presence of all these 10 factors can be a sure short recipe for success for any firm in the ICTD space, we can definitely vouch that their presence increases the chances of success greatly.