Analytic hierarchy process model for the selection of optimal internet access technologies in rural Pakistan

Abstract

Information and telecommunication technologies are considered significant for the economic and social development of isolated and remote areas. Internet technologies create links between urban and rural areas that can overcome the barrier of distance that typically hinders development. In rural areas of Pakistan, Internet penetration is low due to high cost, lack of manageable infrastructure, public issues and many other factors that disturb sustainable Internet provision; however, the choice of access to technology in rural areas is a complex process. In this paper, we used the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, which is a powerful multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach and is a structured procedure for organizing and analyzing complex decisions. Furthermore, we proposed an AHP model for the selection of an ideal Internet access technology, which would facilitate access to Internet services to the 61% of the population who live in Pakistan's rural areas. Data were collected from 38 respondents, from both academia and the telecom sector IT professionals. The relative weights of each factor and technology alternative were synthesized with Expert Choice 2000. This paper can provide comprehensive recommendations to telecommunication policymakers for Internet deployment and the selection of optimal Internet access technology in rural Pakistan.