For Project Compass – Powered by Merit Network
By Jason Kronemeyer

We don’t have the capacity…yet.

In the journey toward digital transformation, communities often face significant capacity barriers. These barriers can include limited digital infrastructure, lack of digital literacy, and insufficient resources. However, embracing the concept of the “Power of Yet,” as introduced by Carol Dweck, can empower communities to overcome these challenges and foster a growth mindset.

To move from mindset to measurable progress, communities need a common map. The Digital Opportunities Compass: Metrics to Monitor, Evaluate, and Guide Broadband and Digital Equity Policy by Colin Rhinesmith, Pierrette Renée Dagg, Johannes M. Bauer, Greta Byrum, and Aaron Schill provides that map.

Built on decades of digital equity research and field experience, the Digital Opportunities Compass guides local leaders in assessing their current status, clarifying their goals, and uniting partners around a shared vision.

At its core, the Compass is organized across six domains, each vital for successful digital transformation:

  • Contexts
    Focuses on the unique social, economic, and cultural factors that shape a community’s digital needs and opportunities.

  • Governance
    Involves the policies, leadership, and decision-making structures that direct digital equity initiatives.

  • Connectivity
    Refers to access to reliable internet services and digital devices.

  • Skills
    Encompasses digital literacy and the ability to use technology effectively.

  • Applications
    Represents practical uses of digital technology in everyday life.

  • Outcomes
    Measures real-world impact, including improved access, equity, and community well-being.

By organizing work across these six domains, the Compass ensures that investments in infrastructure and skills are paired with the human and institutional capacity required for lasting results.

Communities grow when they nurture human capacity, build supportive systems, and invest in aspirations. Digital transformation succeeds not because of technology alone, but because people and institutions are ready to amplify its benefits—a principle articulated by Kentaro Toyama.

The Compass operationalizes that principle by aligning people, institutions, and technology so communities can amplify their own strengths over time.

Understanding the Power of Yet

Carol Dweck’s concept of the Power of Yet promotes viewing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

Rather than seeing obstacles as permanent, this principle emphasizes that progress is attainable through effort, perseverance, and strategy.

For communities, this mindset is foundational. It allows leaders and residents to acknowledge current limitations while believing in future capacity.

Community engagement is essential. It ensures that digital equity efforts align with local needs, aspirations, and lived realities.

Applying the Power of Yet to Digital Transformation

Embracing a Growth Mindset

Digital transformation is an ongoing journey. Communities that see barriers as temporary are more likely to stay resilient and adaptive.

Fostering Collaboration and Partnerships

Partnerships with nonprofits, educational institutions, and the private sector help pool resources and expertise.

Investing in Digital Literacy and Skills

Digital literacy is foundational. Inclusive training programs empower individuals to participate confidently in the digital world.

Creating a Supportive Environment

Mentorship, peer networks, and recognition systems help reinforce progress and persistence.

Setting Incremental Goals

Small, measurable steps allow communities to track progress and celebrate forward movement.

Practical Steps for Communities

Engage the Community

Include residents, leaders, and organizations in planning and assessment to ensure alignment with local needs.

Assess Local Aspirations and Resources

Evaluate infrastructure, access gaps, and opportunities to create a baseline for planning.

Develop Basic Infrastructure

Start with foundational access such as public Wi-Fi in schools, libraries, and community spaces.

Build Digital Literacy

Offer workshops, tutorials, and mentorship programs to build core digital skills.

Leverage the Digital Opportunities Compass

Use the framework to guide planning, evaluation, and continuous improvement.

We Don’t Have the Capacity…Yet

When communities lack sufficient capacity, collaboration becomes the catalyst.

  • Partner with nonprofits to access expertise in digital literacy and implementation
  • Form regional coalitions to share resources and knowledge
  • Engage local organizations to align efforts with community needs

This cooperative approach builds both immediate capability and long-term resilience.

Conclusion

The Power of Yet offers a powerful lens for communities navigating digital transformation.

By pairing a growth mindset with the structure of the Digital Opportunities Compass, communities can:

  • Monitor progress
  • Align stakeholders
  • Build capacity over time
  • Achieve meaningful digital equity outcomes

With persistence, collaboration, and intentional planning, every community can move from not yet to now.

References

  • Dweck, C. S. (2016). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Ballantine Books.
  • Rhinesmith, C., Dagg, P. R., Bauer, J. M., Byrum, G., & Schill, A. (2023). Digital Opportunities Compass. Merit Network & Quello Center.
  • TEDx Talks. (2014). The Power of Yet – Carol Dweck. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-swZaKN2Ic
  • Toyama, K. (2015). Geek Heresy. PublicAffairs.
  • Toyama, K. (2017). Design, Needs, and Aspirations in International Development. Springer.