Identifying potential barriers to community participation and use of telecentres: a Philippines case study

Abstract

Introduction. Telecentres have been set up in most developing countries to provide digital information accessible to as many people as possible. The main issues associated with telecentre sustainability include cultural, technical, financial, social, political, and programmatic issues that directly affect their sustainability. Therefore, this study aims to reframe the problem of information and communication technology usage and consider factors influencing rural telecentre projects. Method. The study consisted of a series of qualitative, exploratory, semi-structured interviews administered to thirteen telecentre operators. Analysis. Thematic content analysis was used to interpret the interview data and identify common themes, which were applied in an affinity diagram for clarification and to reveal any sub-issues within each central theme. Results. The significant findings of this study showed that there are several issues either encouraging or inhibiting individual use of telecentres, which further affects the sustainability of telecentre projects. Conclusion. The study concluded that the issues affecting telecentre sustainability include the physical characteristics of the centre, operational and management approach, service availability, the nature and impact of local competition, and the participation of interested parties, external interested parties, and local community groups.