What is Tech for Good: Understanding Its Impact and Future

Robert Keus
Brthrs Agency
Published in
3 min readJan 21, 2024

In a world increasingly driven by digital innovation, the concept of “tech for good” emerges as a crucial topic. This term, though catchy, often carries nebulous connotations, especially in regions like Southeast Asia where its promise remains under debate. So, what exactly is tech for good, why is it important, and what does its future hold?

What is Tech for Good?

Tech for good refers to the application of technology to address significant social and environmental issues. It encompasses a wide array of sectors including health tech, education tech, cleantech, femtech, and enterprise environmental, social, and governance (ESG) software. In 2021, these sectors attracted a staggering $79 billion in global investments. However, the lack of a unified definition has led to varied expectations and perceptions regarding the effectiveness of tech for good initiatives.

The Importance of Tech for Good

The digital economy, while offering tremendous potential for positive societal change, also harbors risks of negative impacts. A balanced view of tech for good requires an understanding of both the beneficial outcomes and the societal and environmental costs. For example, while nuclear technology has had devastating uses, it has also been adapted for beneficial purposes like medical imaging.

The Framework of Tech for Good

The Tech for Good Institute (TFGI) suggests a framework for understanding and evaluating tech for good. This framework includes:

  1. Responsible Tech: This aspect focuses on minimizing harm in the development and use of technology. It includes building systems with inbuilt security, data protection, and transparency.
  2. Supportive Tech: These are technologies that prevent societal or environmental harm, like automated safety systems or cybersecurity applications.
  3. Facilitative Tech: This involves using technology to optimize benefits by increasing efficiency, reducing waste, or improving convenience.
  4. Transformative Tech: This aspect tackles global challenges by disrupting existing paradigms and creating new solutions, like fintech’s impact on financial inclusion.

Public Perception and Reality

A 2023 flash poll by TFGI in Southeast Asia revealed mixed perceptions of tech for good. Only 46% of respondents felt that technology and the digital economy had delivered on their promise for the region. This indicates a need for clearer understanding and implementation of tech for good concepts.

The Future of Tech for Good

With agencies like Brthrs Agency leading the charge and startups like Bixbio, Frog Systems, and WeWALK pioneering innovative solutions, the future of tech for good looks promising. It is a future where technology transcends its traditional boundaries, becoming a tool for addressing inequalities, enhancing accessibility, and improving lives. The success of these initiatives underscores the potential of technology when aligned with ethical and socially beneficial goals.

Conclusion

Tech for good, while a broad concept, holds the potential to address some of the most pressing social and environmental challenges of our time. It’s not an abstract idea but a tangible pathway to creating a more equitable and sustainable future. As the sector continues to evolve, it’s essential for all stakeholders to develop a shared understanding and commitment to realize the full potential of tech for good.

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