Towards a comprehensive framework for digital inclusion: a comparison of international measurements

Abstract

PurposeMeasuring the extent of digital inclusion is a complex task. This study aims to monitor existing digital inclusion indices at the national level, compare their consistencies and differences and based on this, develop a more comprehensive measurement framework.Design/methodology/approachThe study selected the existing digital inclusion indices that met the screening criteria through a literature survey. Eight digital inclusion indices were included in the final selection and their measurement methodologies were collected. Thereafter, the study adopted a content analysis method to examine and compare the methodologies of the selected digital inclusion indices, with the coding framework grounded on the literature review.FindingsResults suggest that five dimensions of digital inclusion – Access, Skills, Usage, Acceptance and Impact – were measured. Access is the first priority dimension that all digital inclusion indices pay attention to. Skills and Usage are under-measured by methodological limitations in practical measurement tools. Acceptance and Impact are the least covered dimensions both in academic research and practical measurement. Based on this, we propose three suggestions for developing a more comprehensive global framework: designing from the national lens, using more objective and original data sources and improving the framework and indicators with theory.Originality/valueThe study provides scholars and policymakers in the field of digital inclusion with a reference point to create a more comprehensive measurement framework for digital inclusion.