Efficient Penetration Policy for Internet Connection in Pakistan Rural Areas

Abstract

Understanding the preferences of Internet users is useful for ICT (information and communication technology) policy and planning. Infrastructure of telecommunication is recognized as the key and fundamental factor for economic and social development outside the limits of geographical boundaries. Beyond Urban communities, Telecommunication technology infrastructure is a necessity for social benefits, growth, connection and competition, more in the rural communities in developing countries. This study shows appearance of Internet connection in rural areas of Pakistan, and specifically the aim of this research is concerned with a comprehensive examination and analytical procedures on the selection of optimal telecommunications technology infrastructure in Pakistans rural areas. Literature review was accomplished to investigate the knowledge and understanding in the areas of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approaches, with particular focus on the analytical decision processes. The findings show that the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is a powerful decision method which is capable of modeling such a complex problem. An Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method is presented that can be used for the evaluation of alternate technologies in telecommunications. The method is based on pair-wise judgment between various factors that affect the quality of service in a described hierarchical formation. This research will provide valuable insights for the policy makers from both academics and professionals, on Telecommunications infrastructure providing demonstration and how such rural technology selection decisions can be made within Pakistans rural areas.

Keywords: Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Internet penetration, telecommunication infrastructure, multicriteria decision making (MCDM), technology selection, rural Pakistan.