The impressive advances of information and communication technologies (ICT) in some Asian countries have led some people to proclaim a fundamental change in the world economy. It is essential still to study the experience of developing countries thoroughly and critically. The authors and editors have made an admirable contribution to make such an evaluation and fill a big gap in our knowledge. But it is still relatively difficult to find reliable information about the changes taking place in China or any other developing country. One of the many good features of this evaluation is that it takes into account the specific relationship of ICT with the wider social and economic system and the national system of innovation of each country. Christopher Freeman, Emeritus Professor and Founding Director of the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU), University of Sussex, Brighton, UK. "Running across the informative chapters on the diverse experience of several important countries with ICT is a unifying theory of what it takes for successful economic development in today's globalized economy. While drawing on the high-tech products offered by advanced industrial nations, and selectively taking in foreign investments, developing nations need to build their own capabilities for innovation. This is a difficult balancing act, and one that requires significant indigenous investments in human capital and in R and D, and sophistication and strength on the part of the relevant government officials. The case studies show different countries wrestling with the problem, some doing better and some worse. This is a fascinating and important book." Richard R. Nelson, George Blumenthal Professor (Emeritus) of International and Public Affairs, Business, and Law, Columbia University, New York, USA. "This book is important because it gives insight into the role of ICT and ICT policy in the most important emerging economies in the world." Bent Ake Lundvall, Professor of Economics, Aalborg, University, Denmark."