PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS IN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES

Abstract

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have become a popular tool for the public sector to obtain information and communication technology (ICT) innovations and management knowledge from private firms. ICT PPPs are longterm collaborative commitments between public institutions and private ICT companies to deliver higher quality public services at lower cost while sharing resources, responsibilities, and goals. The main argument here is that the private sector will be able to provide ICT services in developing countries more effectively than the public, with low-cost services and suitable business models. It is thought that the fight against poverty in developing countries can be achieved not by subsidies, but by creating opportunities and wealth through the development of ICTs. However, the realization of ICT PPPs can be extremely difficult, especially given the different interests of public and private stakeholders. Risk factors in ICT projects carried out using PPP procurement are discussed in the study.