From Access to Equity A review of: From Access to Outcomes: Raising the Aspirations for Technology Initiatives in Low-Income Communities by the Morino InstituteMorino Institute

Introduction Many times, technology has been implemented in a community without a change in organization, training, or a specific outcome in mind. The thought in these cases is that by providing access to technology, improvements in the community will automatically happen. However, according to the Morino Institute, if an organization wants to implement technology to improve a community’s standard of living, the focus of the organization must be on applying the technology, not just providing it. This paper outlines ten premises upon which technology should be introduced in low-income communities. The premises are based on three decades worth of the institute’s experience in developing technology solutions for business, government, education, and research. In addition, feedback from community leaders, policymakers, technology experts, grantmakers, and academics contributed to the premises presented in this paper.

The First 5 Premises  Focus on Narrowing Social—Not Digital—Divides  Concentrate on Achieving Concrete Outcomes— such as increased vaccination rates, improved job placement, or higher test scores  Work Through Trusted Leaders in the Community  Support Efforts by Communities to Strengthen Their Capacity— such as affordable housing, health clinics, community organizations, and public transporation  Apply Technology to Help Build Capacity— such as an lists, webpages, and online databases that connect businesses and customers

The Last 5 Premises  Recognize That Technology Requires Its Own Capacity — two-thirds of funding should be spent on educating staff and setting up programs that help organizations tap technology’s potential.  Make the Case for Applied Technology — those in low-income communities see little reason to embrace technology  Make Major Changes in Public Policy — federal and state governments should provide frameworks and incentives to stimulate private investment in low-income areas  Dramatically Expand the Availability of Capital — foundations and businesses should pool their resources together  Dramatically Broaden the Scope of Efforts — problems cannot be solved piece-meal; they require comprehensive solutions

Conclusion: Is Access Enough? When developing a technology plan, whether it be for business, education, or community, it is important to keep in mind that simply providing the equipment will not lead to success. This paper emphasizes that the persons involved must have a real purpose for using the technology. Providing people with access to and message boards is a good start, but planning for them to be used as a way to find jobs or healthcare options is more beneficial. In order for groups of people who are disadvantaged to rise up, access to technology is not enough…the technology must be used with a specific social purpose in mind. education Pictures © Morino Institute

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