To Assess the Influence of Policy and Legal Framework on Ict Innovation

Abstract

The study assessed the how policy and legal framework influence software innovation in Kenya. It concentrated on Government laws, policies, industry related issues as well as copyright infringement and enforcement establishment in Kenya. The general objective was an assessment of how legal framework influence software innovation in Kenya. Whereas sub-objectives involved establishing the influence of ICT regulations; establishing the effects of ICT innovation policies; and assess how industry related economic issues affect innovation of software in Kenya. The target population were drawn from software firms in Nairobi. Sampling approach was purposive, to select sample who were competent, knowledgeable and experts in ICT innovation field. Research data were obtained by use of questionnaires, they were then sorted, coded grouped and analyzed using the Statistical software. The findings of the study were that economic factors influence innovation in the form cost of products produced, the size of the market available that dictates demand and supply. Additionally, market prices determine the available innovation due determination market prices before launching products so as not to produce products that are overpriced and out of reach of most customers. Further, rivalry among large industry players affect innovation as each player intends to competitive advantage over the rest. Government play critical role in innovation by setting rules and regulation that govern ICT sector by issuing license to industry actors with conditions that they need to comply with to operate legal businesses. The study recommends need to create ICT hubs to voluntarily equip and incubate innovative ideas. The regulatory framework should create more incentives that promote innovation as this sector has potential of creating massive employment. Future study should be carried to establish how emerging technology would influence the policy direction of a country, as this study has established that existing regulation only cover the existing innovations.