Understanding the Difference Between Digital Public Infrastructure and Digital Public Goods

In an increasingly interconnected world, the synergy between digital public infrastructure (DPI) and digital public goods (DPGs) is crucial for creating an inclusive digital future but there’s currently a lot of confusion about these terms. By understanding their differences and how they complement each other, policymakers, technologists, and communities can better harness their potential to drive positive change on a global scale.

DPI refers to foundational systems and services that are essential for the digital economy, including identification, payments, data exchange, and other services often empowered by DPGs. For example, Tanzania's digital public infrastructure includes the Tanzanian Instant Payments System (TIPS), a digital payments platform built on the DPG model for instant payments.  Aadhaar is a national ID system in India built from bespoke technology.

DPGs, on the other hand, are open-source software, data, standards, or platforms that are freely available for use, modification, and distribution. They are created to provide benefits to the public, with a focus on promoting equity, accessibility, and innovation, particularly in areas aligned with sustainable development goals (SDGs). An example of a DPG is OpenSPP, an open-source software tool for building civil registries in a way that serves all citizens and protects privacy.

DPIs and DPGs together form the foundation for fostering equitable growth in a more inclusive digital world. The interplay between these two concepts is what allows for the creation of digital ecosystems that are not only functional but also accessible and beneficial to all members of society, regardless of their economic status or geographical location.

The Symbiotic Relationship Between DPI and DPGs

The relationship between DPIs and DPGs is symbiotic, with DPGs frequently serving as the foundation for DPIs. For instance, DPIs such as identity management, data exchange, and inclusive instant payment systems can all be powered by open source DPGs, enabling countries to build them more quickly and in alignment with global best practices, while still maintaining sovereignty. By leveraging DPGs, nations can accelerate development and build DPIs that are more adaptable, cost-effective, and resilient. In turn, DPIs support the global network of domain experts and contributors who sustain, enhance, and expand DPGs, allowing those experts to have a greater impact.

Inclusivity and Equity

One of the most critical roles of DPIs and DPGs is promoting inclusivity and equity. By being freely accessible and changeable, DPGs reduce barriers for local innovators—those closest to the last mile—empowering broader participation in the digital economy. This benefit is particularly vital in underserved regions with limited resources. When used to build a DPI, DPGs can help ensure that digital services reach a broader population, driving social inclusion and reducing inequalities because by definition they focus on achieving SDGs.

DPI, by its nature, focuses on providing the essential digital foundations that allow public services and resources to be equitably accessed by all citizens. By embedding the principles of openness and collaboration, DPI can facilitate better delivery of services such as health, education, and finance, and when supported by DPGs, these services are more likely to align with the SDGs. This combination of DPGs and DPI ensures that digital transformation is inclusive, sustainable, and equitable for all communities, particularly those that have historically been marginalized.

Looking Ahead: A Collaborative Future

The collaborative efforts of governments, technologists, and communities will be essential in harnessing the full potential of these concepts, ultimately leading to a world where digital services are accessible, secure, and beneficial to all.  As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the collaboration between the DPI approach and DPGs will become even more critical. By working together, these two elements can drive significant progress in achieving global development goals, fostering innovation, and creating a more inclusive and equitable digital future.