Electronic Networks - Building Community, 2002

A Long and Winding Road: Community Group ICT Uptake in Aotearoa New Zealand

Stephen Blyth, Department of Internal Affairs, Aotearoa NZ

Information and communications technology has been heralded with much fanfare as being a godsend to community and voluntary groups. The advantages of getting online most widely touted in New Zealand include:

• Outreach for advocacy on behalf of clients or campaign, and advertising services.
• Communication within organisations.
• Introduction of administrative efficiency gains through the use of databases, etc.
• Representation online of diverse cultures and values, particularly by Maori and Pacific peoples.

More sophisticated use of ICT in a community networking context promised even more substantial benefits. Despite the hype, in Aotearoa New Zealand the level of uptake is not as extensive as expected, and community groups' usage of electronic networks is still in its infancy.

This paper will look at:

1. The level of technology uptake and Internet use by community groups in New Zealand. This will be based on a survey of community groups, existing research, and content analysis of electronic publishing by groups.
2. Explanations for the current rate of uptake, including a summary of experiences of organisations, and identified barriers and opportunities.
3. Lessons that can assist with uptake by groups, including identification of critical success factors and the policy context.

Regardless of the demise of the dot.com revolution, there is still a widespread expectation that the Internet can be used as a powerful tool for community groups and communities. Some observations about what the technological future holds for community groups in Aotearoa will be offered.

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