Application of structuration theory in the context of ICT: the case of DESH microfinance in Bangladesh

This paper is an exploratory nature of how to adapt structuration theory in the context of information and communication technology (ICT) as used in non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Bangladesh. Structuration theory, developed by Anthony Giddens in 1984, has been used to explain organisational structures with Giddens arguing that structure and human interactions are mutually interdependent. However the main aim of the paper is to evaluate the application of structuration theory in the context of ICT in the microfinance sector of Bangladesh. The case study has been conducted on a leading microfinance institution in Bangladesh (given the pseudonym of DESH). The paper finds that the theory provides a well organised framework to identify organisational and social issues and how they are interconnected to technology. The paper also provides suggestions how technology can be more meaningful to the practitioners.