Technology is becoming more common in Native American communities, although many still lack the resources to acquire and use it, a new report says.

"Overall, telecommunications and information technology is no longer a rarity," according to "Native Networking: Telecommunications and Information Technology in Indian Country," a report by The Benton Foundation.

But the report says that many tribes "do not have the funding, the manpower, the time or the information to get involved with telecommunications and technology."

The report - which aims to provide government policymakers and tribal leaders with essential facts and resources that deal with issues that face tribes in the Digital Age - says telecommunications and information technology are essential to the future growth of tribes.

Yet many tribes "are in the early stages of this endeavor and the value of information, education and networking (both in the human and computer senses) cannot be overestimated.

"Tribes must begin at home to define the needs and goals important to their communities, and then reach out and forge the relationships necessary to achieve those goals."

Although many tribes are just starting to integrate technology into their way of life, the report says, they have not been fully included in growth and development opportunities offered by public and private telecommunications and technology sectors.

Focusing on the interaction between Indian sovereignty and government regulation, "Native Networking" was designed as a tool for reference, training, planning and general education. The report is to serve as a resource for tribes, policymakers and others who seek information about telecommunication and information technology.

The report also provides extensive lists of funding sources, current projects in Indian country and technology-focused Native businesses and organizations.