Chris Foster’s research focus is on technologies and innovation in developing and emerging markets, with a particular interest on how ICTs can support development of low income groups.
Prior to working in OII, Chris received a PhD from the University of Manchester. In this work Chris explored the growth of mobile sector innovation in Kenya, and its implications for innovation theory, firm strategy and public policy.
Chris also has extensive experience of working in the ICT sector. As a consultant in a number of NGOs working in Africa, he has helped organisations to better link and understand their recipients through use of ICTs. Christopher also has extensive experience of innovation in the UK, having previously worked in R&D in the telecommunication sector.
ICT and development, innovation, user innovation, information systems development.
This research project is examining the geographies, drivers, and effects of Sub-Saharan Africa's emerging information economies at a time of changing connectivity and Internet access across the region.
By using surveys, interviews and in-depth observations, this project examined the expectations and stated potentials of broadband Internet in East Africa and compared those expectations to on-the-ground effects that broadband connectivity is having.
By Christopher Foster and Mark Graham
How does improved internet connectivity help or hinder firms in developing countries? This report from Oxford researchers considers that question through studying the experience of Rwandan tourism firms after the arrival of fibre-optic in 2009.
By Christopher Foster and Mark Graham
How can improved connectivity help business in East Africa? This report finds that digital connectivity is increasingly important to the Rwandan tea industry, but that the challenge is ensuring benefits are felt down the production chain by farmers.
13 April 2016
13 April 2016
1 July 2015
15 May 2015
