As of 2021, only 30 countries have strong performance in the three key indexes of ICT-centric innovation: ICTs (ITU IDI), innovation (GII) and entrepreneurship (GEDI).
These three indexes reflect the overall economic performance of the three engines of growth — the technology, innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems— that need to work together to enable digital transformation. Understanding the level of development of these engines of growth is key to benchmarking a country's performance. Once this benchmark is established, and the gap assessed, good practices are needed to fill address issues in ICT-centric innovation ecosystems. A good practice is a proven practice that yields evidence-based impact and successful results, and can be scaled-up and replicated. Good practices are needed to help:
- Develop flagship projects,
- Comparatively assess the strengths and weaknesses of a practice, and
- Undertake evidence-based policy or program development.
With good practices, you can effortlessly add value to your ecosystems' initiatives. However, a good practice should not be replicated “as is", because every ecosystem and project is different.
WTDC-17's final report takes note of this, with ITU membership seeking support from the innovation programme (Output 3.4) “ in raising awareness about digital innovation ecosystems and related new technological trends as well as best practices that influence digital transformation" in developing countries in particular.
Sharing and implementing good practices that foster digital entrepreneurship and innovation helps improve a country's performance and productivity.
