Mobile applications in general and mobile applications for agricultural and rural development (m-ARD apps) in particular hold significant potential for advancing development. Though there have been many studies on the mobile revolution, there is a lack of systematic trend analyses, in-depth case studies, and assessments of experiences with m-ARD apps in developing countries. Thus this report examines their development impact, ecosystems, and business models to provide an analytical framework for policymakers and development practitioners. The framework is designed to help them understand how these applications can be used to improve services for rural residents in these countries and support enabling environments for innovative m-ARD apps. The report summarizes a study of 92 m-ARD apps in Africa, Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean. It also presents the findings of 15 detailed case studies of such apps in Kenya, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka.
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© World Bank , 2012