Can USC Global Impact Learn from GrameenPhone?

I came across a great TED talk a little while back that is very relevant to our project:

Iqbal Quadir says mobiles fight poverty

Quadir's talk is great for a number of reasons

Bottom Up Development:
I love when he says, "Economic development is of the people, by the people, and for the people." I think that is the real strength of all of the Global Impact projects. We're attempting to connect with people directly and empower them. I think for that reason it's incredibly important to be in Rahul Brown's words "radically open". What works best for the local community will always be our primary guidance.

Mobile Phones/Technology:
The premise behind GrameenPhone was initially very counterintuitive, but that is what makes it powerful. The cellphone was assumed to be a tool exclusively for the developed world, and its introduction was blocked by a number of excuses: The poor can't afford them, etc. Quadir and others have proven that technology can not only be introduced in developing countries to improve quality of life, but can also be done so profitably.

Our Project:
GrameenPhone and others have laid the foundation for individuals and communities across the developing world to communicate with one another. The challenge now is to continue to find ways in which cell-phones can be leveraged to improve lives. Our project attempts to do just that. We will likely face a number of the challenges that Quadir faced, including proving that a Frontline SMS system is a "production tool" and will thus pay for itself, and can certainly learn from his experience.

- Dan

(Video courtesy of TED - for more information visit www.TED.com)