2008年-世界发展银行全球_Bringing_Bangladesh_into_the_Digital_Age_4页_279kb

Bringing Bangladesh into the Digital Age: Summary

Core Content

The document outlines the vision and implementation of bracNet, a joint venture between DEFTA Partners and BRAC, aimed at bringing Bangladesh into the digital age through the deployment of WIMAX-based broadband communications. This initiative is part of DEFTA Partners' broader corporate mission to use technology to improve the standard of living in developing countries.

Main Points

• Corporate Mission: DEFTA Partners seeks to leverage its technological expertise to enhance the quality of life in developing countries through improved communication and information infrastructure.
• Why Bangladesh?: The country was chosen due to its large population, political stability, low cost of infrastructure deployment, and high economic activity. It also has a high rate of micro-credit borrowers, which aligns with BRAC's social development goals.
• Project Overview: bracNet is a pilot project launched in 2005 with the goal of becoming the largest wireless IP-based communications company in Bangladesh by 2010.
• Technology Choice: WIMAX is selected for its cost-effectiveness compared to cellular or fixed line networks. It allows for broad coverage at a lower capital cost.
• Partnership Strategy: bracNet is a joint venture between DEFTA Partners (60%) and BRAC (40%). BRAC brings local expertise, NGO experience, and deep roots in the country's education and health sectors.
• Implementation Plan: The project follows a disciplined strategy to roll out the network, starting with urban areas and expanding to rural regions. It also includes training programs, distribution channels, and public access points.
• Revenue and Profit Projections: By 2009, bracNet is expected to generate $60 million in revenue and $17 million in profit, while saving $500 million in capital investment for Bangladesh.
• Social Impact: The project aims to increase literacy, enhance education, and improve healthcare through the use of internet access, IP-PBX, video services, and digital tools.
• Global Expansion: DEFTA Partners plans to replicate the bracNet model in other developing countries, including CLMV (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam), Caribbean, and African nations.
• Double Bottom Line: The initiative is designed to achieve profitability for investors and social responsibility for the country, moving away from grant-based models towards a sustainable, business-driven approach.

Key Information

• Population: Bangladesh has the 8th largest population in the world, around 150 million people.
• Literacy Rate: Approximately 50%.
• Per Capita GDP: Around $400.
• Network Infrastructure: bracNet uses WIMAX to provide low-cost broadband to urban and rural areas.
• BRAC's Role: BRAC operates 52,000 schools and provides healthcare to 31 million people. It also has a strong micro-credit program with a 99% repayment rate.
• Distribution Channels:
  • bracNet Partners: Local entrepreneurs providing internet access at $15–18 per month.
  • e-huts: Digital centers in rural areas offering internet access for less than 50 cents and computer training.
  • Education Sector: BRAC's 52,000 schools are a key target for internet connectivity.
• Technological Partners: DEFTA Partners uses XVD (for video compression) and Fortinet (for network security) to enhance services.
• Global Presence: DEFTA Partners has an international network of investors and advisors, enabling accountability and vast financial interest in the project.
• Future Plans: DEFTA Partners is exploring new projects in other developing countries, aiming to maximize profits while reducing poverty globally.

Conclusion

bracNet represents a revolutionary approach to combining capitalism and social responsibility. It demonstrates how technology can be harnessed to improve lives in developing countries while also creating sustainable business opportunities. The project's success in Bangladesh has paved the way for global replication, offering a model for future development initiatives.