Lab+3

**Tutorial #3 Wiki Questions:**
1. Describe the benefits of microfinancing according to 'Can the Cellphone Help End Global Poverty' at __ [] __(200 words)

The "Can the Cellphone Help End Global Poverty" article lists the many benefits of microfinancing. Essentially, it allows those people living in the poorest regions to gradually pull themselves out of poverty. Cell phones help them increase their incomes while reducing the waste of resources, time and opportunity, at the same time. With its ability to connect millions of people across long distances, the possibilities are endless. Microfinancing creates possibilities by making access to cell phones more affordable and easily available. For example, in Bangledesh, Grameen Bank created the Grameen Phone that revolutionized communications. Women in poor countries were now able to seek a career as "phone ladies", where they would use microcredit to purchase cellphone kits, each equipped with a long-lasting battery. They then set up shop as their village phone operator, charging a small commission for people to make and receive calls. Mobile banking is also made possible through microfinancing. When people in poor countries have access to cell phones, they can handle their finances through them; they can then make purchases and payments or withdraw cash as needed. In addition, microfinancing allows for people like “phone ladies” to invest in a cell phone, which can be rented out as a community phone. For years cell phones have been used as tools to improve the livelihoods of the people using them. It has opened doors and benefited many.

2. “It’s really quite striking,” Hammond says. “What people are voting for with their pocketbooks, as soon as they have more money and even before their basic needs are met, is telecommunications.” (World Resources Institute) In the spirit of this quote, describe four instances of how owning a cellphone enables users to better their lives. (4 paragraphs/ one for each instance)

**Safety:** Owning a cell phone increases the users safety. A number of poor regions are victim to extreme climate and political conditions. With the use of a cell phone, users not only can track the weather pattern but also become aware of an oncoming hurricane, earth quake, flood, or snow storm. Even more so, a cell phone allows users to easily contact authorities (i.e. police, firefighters, etc.) in case of an emergency. People can text or call one another and be found, if they have been split up or gone missing in any event. The cell phone can increase one’s safety by fostering the prevention of harm from happening to a user, or connect them to others who can provide safety.

**Private & Personal Identification:** Text messaging or S.M.S (short message services) is now used as a way to connect privately with people. For instance, in Kenya, people use S.M.S to ask anonymous questions about "culturally taboo subjects" such as AIDS, breast cancer and sexually transmitted diseases. They receive immediate answers from health experts for no charge. In addition, having a call-back number according to Chipchase, is like having a fixed identity. To those constantly on a move, it becomes greatly valuable as means of keeping in touch with communities and as a business tool.

**Just-in-time:** Cell phones have allowed users to engage in incremental, rather than centralized co-ordination/planning. One can plan their actions in accordance to the other persons step-by-step direction. According to Chipchase, this way of planning is more efficient than the oft-imperfect practice of designating a specific time and place to meet. The "just-in-time" process is a key part of improving the lives of those that live in rural areas, who do not have permanent addresses. The cell phone, an extension of one's identity, can allow for users to move about and still remain in contact with others. The cell phone enables flexibility.

**Global Economic Development**: Cellphones help sustain life by encouraging economic growth and development as well as encouraging commerce. Evidently, such cell phones have become an integretal part of social and business practices in the most trivial of ways in developing and developed countries. Telecommunications is a crucial way to send and share information vital to the livilihood of small busineses and major corporations that provide jobs to thousands of people.