Conclusion

Abstract

Abstract This chapter concludes the book. The conclusion’s primary argument is that even when you think you have been politically smart—and the Oxford team designed the Digital Economy Kit with realpolitik at its heart—you probably have not been smart enough. Sensible people can disagree as to the initial outcomes of the Kit: an optimist would point to achievements. A pessimist would say that change was already coming and the Kit only nudged at the margins, if at all, and that any coalitions for change are not likely to last. Both can be correct, but this chapter comes down on the side that for all the challenges it met, the Kit was worthwhile for the countries, and its design and roll out offers wider lessons for outsiders seeking a sensible role in helping developing countries with change, be it in the digital area or in other aspects of their economies and societies.