Structure and flexibility in global research design: Methodological choices in landscape study of public access in 25 countries

Abstract

This paper presents the research methodology for the Landscape of Public Access Technology in Developing Countries study, conducted between 2007 and 2010 by the Technology & Social Change Group at the University of Washington Information School, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The study looked at public access venues (public libraries, telecentres, cybercafés, other) that offer public access to information, especially through information and communication technologies, in 25 countries around the world. This paper describes the criteria for country selection, the selection of local research partners in each country, research design considerations, data analysis, and the limitations of the study.