bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contribution of ICT to Freedom and Democracy: An Empirical Analysis of Archival Data on the Middle East
Authors: Shirazi Farid
Published: December 2017

This study is based on an empirical analysis of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) archival data for ten Middle Eastern countries: Bahrain, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and United Arab Emirates for the period of 1995–2003. Some previous studies consider the impact of ICT on socio‐economic development in the region. Using a set of regression analyses, this paper shows that ICT expansion in the Middle East has not only resulted in the reduction of the Digital Divide between this region and developed countries, it has also had a positive impact on promoting democracy and freedom of expression in a region that suffers most from political, social and global conflicts (Freedom House, 2006; Reporters Without Borders, 2005).
ICTs as a Tool for Cultural Dominance: Prospects for a Two‐Way Street
Authors: Andrade Antonio Díaz , Urquhart Cathy
Published: December 2017

While the case for information and communication technologies (ICTs) for development is largely accepted, it should be remembered that ICTs carry embedded in them sets of cultural assumptions. Efforts to close the digital divide are insufficient if those efforts remain oblivious to the cultural dominance of English language content available on the Internet. This paper discusses how the proliferation of the Internet has resulted in a cultural homogenisation via the lingua franca of the Internet, English. It then discusses the case of Latin American Internet portals to illustrate how local content provision on the Internet can be successful in attracting a local audience.
Examining Online Banking Initiatives in Nigeria: A Value Network Approach
Authors: Andoh‐Baidoo Francis Kofi , Osatuyi Babajide
Published: December 2017

The central banks of several developing nations have encouraged financial institutions to provide strategic online banking services and products to remain competitive. This is in recognition of the cheaper cost of information and communication technologies (ICT) that support the delivery of such products and services. In this paper, we use a value network theoretical model to examine the electronic banking services and products provided by banks in Nigeria. We visited the websites of banks and identified the different services they provide using Southard and Siau's [24] framework. We also interviewed operations managers of these banks to validate the data collected from the websites. We discuss the implications of our findings using the value network model as a lens, and suggest appropriate strategies that will enable banks provide competitive products and services, and create value for the banks and their customers.
Internet Access in South African Homes: A Preliminary Study on Factors Influencing Consumer Choice
Authors: Brown Irwin , Letsididi Boipelo , Nazeer Mohammed
Published: December 2017

South African consumers have moved from a situation where narrowband dial‐up was very often the only option for home Internet access to where there is now a plethora of broadband and narrowband options to choose from. Very little research in information systems has investigated the phenomenon of consumer choice of technology. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing consumer choice of Internet access option in South African homes. By drawing from theories of technology adoption, 13 factors were identified, grouped into three categories, namely attitudinal beliefs, normative beliefs and control beliefs. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 12 consumers who had Internet access in their homes. Their views on the 13 factors were gathered to ascertain if and how they influenced their choice of Internet access option. The findings show that the attitudinal beliefs of relative advantage, compatibility, ease of use, and prior experience have a bearing on consumer choice. Normative beliefs associated with friends and family, as well as secondary sources also had an influence. Finally, it was shown that control beliefs relating to costs of access, and support and service were key influences on consumer choice. These and other findings are discussed, and implications drawn.
E‐government, People and Social Change: A Case Study in China
Authors: Guanghua LUO
Published: December 2017

It is generally believed that ICT has considerable potential to improve governance capabilities and transform relations with customers. China, like many other countries, embraces e‐government enthusiastically but encounters big challenges at the same time. Therefore, the successful development of e‐government becomes a pivotal issue in China. Through the social study of e‐government the author criticises the prevalent technological determinism. Since information systems are social systems, e‐government encompasses various political, economic, social, organisational and people issues besides technical ones, so that its application is far more complicated. This paper studies the relevant social and organisational issues of e‐government in China, which are important but usually ignored in contemporary Chinese literature. As a lens, aspects of structuration, especially duality of technology is applied into the analysis of the selected Nanhai case. The research focuses on middle‐level officials’ views and attitudes towards e‐government; explores the ICT‐mediated interactions between public organisations and civil servants and implications on social change. Moreover, the research unveils the important role the middle‐level officials play, as well as that of senior management in the Information Systems (IS) application.
A Conceptual Framework for E‐Learning in Developing Countries: A Critical Review of Research Challenges
Authors: Andersson Annika , Grönlund Åke
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a critical review of research on challenges for e‐learning with a particular focus on developing countries. A comprehensive literature review including 60 papers on e‐learning challenges was undertaken for the purpose of understanding how to implement e‐learning in developing countries. Research questions were: what has existing research identified as the major challenges for e‐learning, and, what differences, if any, are there between developing countries and developed countries in this respect? The literature study found 278 papers which were condensed to 60 based on exclusion and inclusion criteria designed to find papers of best quality as well as papers that clearly investigated well‐defined challenges. The research found 30 specific challenges which were grouped into four categories, viz.: courses, individuals, technology and context. The overall conclusion is that these challenges are equally valid for both developed and developing countries; however in developing countries more papers focus on access to technology and context whereas in developed countries more papers concern individuals. A further finding is that most papers focus on one or two categories of challenges; few papers exhibit a comprehensive view. Because challenges are interrelated, based on the findings we propose a conceptual framework of emerging issues for e‐learning in developed and developing countries. The framework is useful to guide both practice and research.
Factors Influencing AIS Effectiveness Among Manufacturing SMEs: Evidence From Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Noor Azizi
Published: December 2017

This study examines accounting information systems (AIS) effectiveness and its influence factors in the specific context of small and medium manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. The proposed model examines the impact of AIS sophistication, manager participation in AIS implementation, manager AIS knowledge, manager accounting knowledge, and effectiveness of external experts such as vendors, consultants, government agencies, and accounting firms on AIS effectiveness. We included 232 SMEs registered with the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) in testing the model. The results show that manager accounting knowledge, and the effectiveness of vendors and accounting firms significantly contributed to AIS effectiveness. Overall, this study suggests that managers of SMEs need to acquire sufficient accounting knowledge to better understand business information requirements. Second, SMEs should engage qualified vendors who have experience and understand unique characteristics of SME to overcome their lack of AIS knowledge. SMEs should also exploit their good relationship with accounting firms to help them implement effective AIS. Finally, it is important for SMEs to learn from AIS implementation so that opportunities can be recognized and priority can be given to those initiatives that support their information needs.
SMS Banking: Explaining the Effects of Attitude, Social Norms and Perceived Security and Privacy
Authors: Amin Hanudin , Ramayah T.
Published: December 2017

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the use of short‐messaging‐service (SMS) banking among Malaysian bank customers. It focuses on the relationships among attitude, subjective norm, perceived security and privacy (PSP) and intention to use SMS banking. We collected 115 valid survey responses. The data indicate that attitude, subjective norm, and PSP are influential predictors of intention to use SMS banking. Corresponding discussion and implications are included.
Developing a Knowledge Management Strategy for the Arab World
Authors: Skok Walter , Tahir Saad
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study is to investigate the issue of knowledge sharing and knowledge management (KM) in an Arab context, by identifying the main issues and obstacles which arise as a result of the Arab culture. By using field data from questionnaires given to staff in an Arab firm, the research shows that western based KM practices should be applied cautiously in a non‐western setting. The research concluded that the most appropriate overall knowledge strategy to adopt is a hybrid strategy of ‘intellectual asset management’ i.e. where existing company assets are more fully exploited and ‘personal knowledge assert responsibility’ i.e. where individual employees are encouraged to develop and share their skills and knowledge. This blended approach will nurture a culture of knowledge sharing amongst staff, which is often difficult to achieve. The research also demonstrates how the biggest barriers to knowledge sharing in Arab organisations are the people themselves together with their social and cultural beliefs. These results will be useful within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and for other Arab governments and organisations (as well as multinationals who are looking to set up in an Arab country), when trying to formulate KM strategies. This research allows them to understand better the barriers that will prevent successful implementation of KM in an Arab setting. It also provides them with a series of recommendations to help overcome such obstacles, and thus seeks to find active solutions to ensure that the concepts of knowledge management and sharing are not lost in translation.
Contribution of Mobile Phones to Rural Livelihoods and Poverty Reduction in Morogoro Region, Tanzania
Authors: Sife Alfred Said , Kiondo Elizabeth , Lyimo‐Macha Joyce G.
Published: December 2017

This study examined the contribution of mobile phones to rural livelihoods and poverty reduction in Morogoro region, Tanzania. The study sample comprised of 310 households, 74 focus group participants and 22 key informants. Data were collected through questionnaire, focus groups, and key informant interviews and were analyzed using SPSS and Nvivo. The findings indicate that mobile phones contribute to reduce poverty and improve rural livelihoods by expanding and strengthening social networks; increase people's ability to deal with emergencies; cut down travel costs; maximize the outcomes of necessary journeys; increase temporal accessibility; and amplify efficiency of activities. The use of mobile phones also reduces costs of doing business and increases productivity by helping rural traders and farmers to secure better markets and prices; and promptly communicate business‐related information. Although they enabled rural communities to generate some income through the sale of mobile phone services, the phones had not made important contribution in this aspect. It is concluded that mobile phones contribute to improve rural livelihoods and reduce poverty by providing rural households with fast and easy modes of communication, thereby increasing their ability to access livelihood assets, undertake diverse livelihoods strategies, and overcome their vulnerabilities.
Twitter as a Rapid Response News Service: An Exploration in the Context of the 2008 China Earthquake
Authors: Li Jessica , Rao H.R.
Published: December 2017

Micro‐blogging websites (such as twitter), a new information channel, was widely reported as outperforming the mainstream information channels in numerous ways during the massive 2008 China earthquake, including beating the first official mainstream news released from the USGS to report the initial tremor (BBC May 12 2008). According to Twitter.com, there have been noticeable spikes of twitter usage during disasters and other large events, serving as an extremely powerful and effective fast response news service. This raises some important exploratory questions: What kind of information can micro‐blogging provide regarding disaster news? Of what quality is the information provided by micro‐blogging? Can the modern communication tool – micro‐blogging, replace the mainstream media information channel or merely supplement it in distributing disaster news? How do twitter (and other micro‐blogging services) compare with the mainstream information channels during the different timeframes in terms of information quality and collective intelligence? For this research paper, we will use Twitter as a proxy for micro‐blogging in general, the mainstream media information channel as the benchmark, and the massive 2008 Sichuan earthquake as our research subject. At the time of the Sichuan earthquake, Twitter was universally available in the China mainland. The aim of this exploratory study is to shed some light on how micro‐blogging can provide integrated and speedy information regarding disaster news.
Surface Deformation Monitoring in the Goldfields Ghana Limited Area
Authors: Duncan E. E. , Kuma J. S. , Avane G.
Published: December 2017

Large sets of remotely sensed data can be acquired using satellite communication technology and processed using high performance computers to produce interpreted images of objects on earth. The rapid advancement of remote sensing techniques has enabled these satellites to acquire data of large areas within a relatively short period. This study investigated the application of remote sensing imagery from two different platforms in monitoring land surface deformation in the Goldfields Ghana Limited Tarkwa, area. The results showed that both DInSAR and Intensity Difference Analysis are able to identify land surface deformation due to surface mining. However, it was not possible to pinpoint the location of slope failure without the knowledge of the incident.
M‐pesa: A Case Study of the Critical Early Adopters’ Role in the Rapid Adoption of Mobile Money Banking in Kenya
Authors: Ngugi Benjamin , Pelowski Matthew , Ogembo Javier Gordon
Published: December 2017

This study reviews key factors that led to the phenomenal growth of mobile money banking services in Kenya using M‐PESA, “mobile cash money”, the leading mobile money service provider as a case study. The study considers the outstanding challenges experienced by users, possible solutions and future trends. These aspects are covered through a critical review of existing literature, secondary data and a survey targeting mobile phone users living in the major urban centers, considered to be the early adopters of new technologies in Kenya. Several lessons learnt from the mobile money rollout in this Kenyan experience are identified for future researchers and practitioners.
Bridging the Agricultural Knowledge and Information Divide: The Case of Selected Telecenters and Rural Radio in Tanzania
Authors: Lwoga Edda Tandi
Published: December 2017

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are important resources for enabling poor farmers to make informed decision regarding their farming activities, especially in the rural areas of developing countries. Effective public access ICTs (telecenters and rural radio) based on farmers needs and with farmers’ rural and socio‐economic constraints can bridge the knowledge and information divide and contribute to agricultural growth. This paper looks at the public access ICTs (telecenters and rural radio) in Tanzania, by assessing their knowledge and information services that focus on supporting farming activities of small‐scale farmers, use of telecenters and barriers faced by telecenters in their knowledge and information services. A qualitative approach was deployed to interview eight telecenter operators, where two of them provided radio broadcasting services. The study found that there was low use of internet for knowledge acquisition, while cell phones were becoming popular for farmers to communicate with telecenter operators and rural radio in case of emergency or advice regarding farming activities. With consistent government funding and conducive regulatory environment, telecenters can develop demand led services and sustain their services by strengthening the following: regular information needs assessments; capacity building; knowledge culture; collaboration among farmers and other related organizations; and utilization of multiple sources of knowledge (such as, ICTs and indigenous communication approaches) in order to meet the disparate farmers’ needs.
Modelling and Assessment of the Effectiveness of Government Information Technologies Value Space Approach with a Public Sector Case Study in Turkey
Authors: Guclu Aydin Nusret , Bilgen Semih
Published: December 2017

In the context of evaluating effectiveness of information systems, the public sector requires a specific approach for measuring indirect benefits such as strategic / political value. There is not yet a holistic approach and no unified adaptive and time‐variant model addressing the problem. A model for assessing both initiatives and ex‐post benefits is needed. In this paper, we describe the Strategic Management Model, developed and partially applied at the Ministry of Finance, Turkey. The model merges public value, strategic goals, service delivery value chain, performance indicators, continuous monitoring and evaluation, and asset management concepts in the Public Financial Management Value Space. This is compliant with Government Finance Statistics, which is the basis for our Public Financial Management Value Space, with dimensions, in which every node and path is defined as an object within this value space. This adaptive model will allow multi‐dimensional assessment, enabling backward traceability, establishing the necessary links between the performance, goals and budget.
Adoption of E‐commerce in Jordan: Understanding the Security Challenge
Authors: Halaweh Mohanad
Published: December 2017

Security is a consistent barrier to the adoption and implementation of e‐commerce for customers and organisations. Prior research into the adoption of e‐commerce and Internet banking has reported many other challenges and barriers that hinder the acceptance and engagement in e‐commerce transactions. However, few research studies have attempted to address each challenge separately in depth, in the hope of solving the difficulties, making improvements and obtaining insight into each factor/challenge, which will ultimately enhance the adoption of e‐commerce. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to focus on the security challenges by exploring the nature of this factor from both a customer and organisational perspective within Jordan. An interpretive‐qualitative research was adopted in this research, which helps to understand the phenomenon in its natural setting. The results of this research provide decision makers (businesses and IT managers) and companies that run an online business in Jordan insights into the current situation of this factor (security), which will enable them to implement effective strategies to address this factor.
The “I” Between G and C: E‐Government Intermediaries in Developing Countries
Authors: Sein Maung K.
Published: December 2017

While there has been a rapid growth in e‐Government initiatives in developing countries, whether it has led to providing effective government services to the citizens has remained a question of concern. Evidence suggests that this objective is far from being met. The main hurdle has been that an overwhelming part of the citizens in these countries do not have the capability to either access government information physically or to use it effectively even when they can access it. In this paper, the conjecture is made that linking citizens to government in developing countries require an intermediary. Based on prior articulations of this concept, this paper develops the entity Intermediary and explicates its role in the government to citizen interaction process12.
ICT Evaluation: Are We Asking the Right Questions?
Authors: Gomez Ricardo , Pather Shaun
Published: December 2017

The evaluation of information and communication technologies (ICT) in development activities has metamorphised through different phases in the last 30 years. In this paper we explore the experiences of ICT evaluation in the broad business environment and draw parallels with the ICT for development (ICTD) environment. The paper motivates the need for a fundamental paradigm shift in ICTD evaluation. We argue that it is not sufficient to focus on the easily measurable tangible and quantifiable benefits of ICT. We motivate that the intangible benefits of ICT on development such as empowerment, self‐esteem and social cohesion are more important from a developmental perspective. Consequently, a more detailed exploration of the theoretical and methodological implications of this shift in the ICTD field is warranted.
Managing Risks at the Project Initiation Stage of Large IS Development for HEI: A Case Study in Indonesia
Authors: Moertini Veronica S.
Published: December 2017

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Indonesia feel the pressure to provide up to date IT facilities for students, who have been using IT devices and the Internet as part of their life style. One of the facilities needed most is an Academic Information System (AIS) that provides 24/7 access to up to date information and academic transactions. Under the circumstances in 2007, at the HEI of the case study, the AIS must be built in‐house regardless of the HEI's being unprepared to develop large scale information systems (IS). IS project development is known to have high risks, even in developed countries. This makes it even riskier in Indonesia, where organizations are less established than in developed countries. This paper presents the risks faced at the project initiation stage of AIS development project and the methods of managing these risks. The methods proposed have been implemented successfully in the HEI of the case study.
Hopes and Fears in Implementation of Electronic Health Records in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Sana Z. , Shahid Zahraa , Hedstrom Karin , Andersson Annika
Published: December 2017

Health is seen as a major key for development and many developing country governments invest in ICT‐based Health Information Systems (HIS). The purpose of this paper is to explore physicians’ hopes and fears for implementing Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems in Bangladeshi hospitals. Data was collected through interviews and observations at two Bangladeshi hospitals. We found very little use of EHR systems at the hospitals and many physicians were skeptical of using EHR systems. Whereas this skepticism could be seen as a symptom of backward thinking our analysis found much of this skepticism to be reasonable. In this way this research contributes to the ongoing debate on how to implement HIS in developing countries. We articulate and analyze users’ concerns beyond mere “attitudes” and “acceptance”. Our results show that the fears and concerns on the hospital floors are legitimate and should be taken into consideration when HIS projects are initiated.
ICT Barriers and Critical Success Factors in Developing Countries
Authors: Touray Almamy , Salminen Airi , Mursu Anja
Published: December 2017

Since the early 1990s, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been perceived as a catalyst for development. However, the UNICEF State of the World's Children Report 2011 acknowledges that the poor in many developing countries remain largely excluded from ICT and its benefits. This paper aims to address three issues. Firstly, identify ICT barriers in the literature from 2000 to 2011. Secondly, identify ICT barriers through empirical findings and thirdly, categorize these barriers into critical success factors. These aims are achieved by comparing the findings in the literature to our recent empirical results. Two methodologies are used in this study, namely, a systematic literature review and a case study; the empirical data for our case study was collected from The Gambia in autumn of 2012. The systematic literature review covers 1107 studies (2000–2011) published in the top five ranked ICT4D journals in terms of journal citation ranking. The paper identifies a total of 43 ICT barriers. Forty of them are common to both studies while the remaining three were revealed in the case study, namely, lack of Internet exchange points, micromanaging and invisible hands. The barriers in both studies are grouped into eight possible critical success factors and their degrees of severity are then compared. This paper argues that lack of Internet exchange points is an important ICT barrier that is overlooked in our review pool.
Impediments to Enterprise System Implementation over the System Lifecycle: Contrasting Transition and Developed Economies
Authors: Soja Piotr , Paliwoda‐Pękosz Grażyna
Published: December 2017

The main goal of this study is to investigate similarities and differences between impediments to enterprise system (ES) implementation in transition and developed economies. The adopted research approach incorporates the system lifecycle and seeks to examine how the difficulties change across the lifecycle phases. The research builds on the opinions of ES practitioners from Poland, a transition economy from Central and Eastern Europe. The main findings illustrate that difficulties experienced by ES adoptions in developed economies seem to concentrate on the project phase where implementation activities are carried out whereas in Polish companies problems tend to span through all the lifecycle phases. The results also suggest that in transition economies practitioners have to deal mostly with system‐related issues across the whole lifecycle. In developed economies, on the contrary, the shift from system‐related to business‐related problems throughout the system lifecycle is observed.
An Information Technology Model for Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Security
Authors: Sultanow Eldar , Brockmann Carsten
Published: December 2017

How to ensure non‐manipulated, original pharmaceutical products to be sold to the final consumer is a matter of national interest. In this contribution we are going to present an approach which combines both information technology as well as process reengineering to ensure pharmaceutical correctness and safety of the drugs sold. Firstly, requirements for a model will be determined. Secondly, existing approaches and their pitfalls are presented. Finally, we will introduce a new model for controlling the security of pharmaceutical supply chains.
Assessing the Use of Information and Communication Technologies for Learning in Emerging Countries
Authors: Ali Mazen , AlHinai Yousuf Salim
Published: December 2017

With globalization and the revolutions in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), the world economy has undergone fundamental re‐structuring from an industrial economy to a one that is based on knowledge facilitated by innovative technologies. Given the capability of Information Technology to dramatically increase the amount and timeliness of information, the implication of ICT on emerging countries, as producers and users of ICT, became evident. In the education sector, the utilization of ICT in the sharing of knowledge has become an important strategic pillar for economic development in the 21st century. In this area, simulation role‐play games were developed as effective tools to enhance students’ learning process and are increasingly being used to replace traditional role‐play games. However, it is still unclear whether such imported ICT solutions can yield the same expected results in emerging countries. Based on an experimental design involving two groups of students playing the manual and computerized Beer Game, this study aims to examine how imported ICT‐based learning tools can enhance students’ learning compared to methods traditionally used in emerging countries. This study provides useful insights to both researchers and educators interested in understanding the opportunities and challenges in adopting ICT solutions to enhance education sectors in emerging countries.
The Emancipation of the Researcher as Part of Information and Communication Technology for Development Work in Deep Rural South Africa
Authors: Krauss Kirstin , Turpin Marita
Published: December 2017

In this paper the authors contend that if the outsider‐researcher involved in Information and Communication Technology for Development research really wants to make a difference and honestly address the emancipatory interests of the developing community, emancipation has to take place on both sides of the ‘development divide’. Emancipatory research and practice need to be accompanied by an understanding of the researcher‐practitioner's own assumptions, preconceptions, and limitations as well as local concerns, needs, and realities. Using a critical theoretical underpinning, the paper demonstrates how the outsider researcher and practitioner may recquire emancipation in order to ensure more appropriate Information and Communication Technology for Development. Through confessional writing and demonstrating critical reflexivity, the authors reflect on particular instances of self‐emancipation as they present three narratives from the community entry phases of an ongoing community engagement project in a deep rural part of South Africa. Lessons learned include, the value of cultural interpreters as research partners, tactics for community entry, and a self‐reflective approach to doing fieldwork.
Towards an Efficient City Inventory Management System for Urban Authorities in Developing Countries – The Case of 3D Change Detection
Authors: Sharkawi Khairul Hafiz , Rahman Alias Abdul
Published: December 2017

As cities and urban areas grow and become more complex, the task of managing, updating and displaying three‐dimensional urban information can be challenging for city and urban authorities. The emergence of 3D city models has enabled the authorities to work with more reliable and competent data as 3D data (and maps) are proven to be more accurate and relatable in representing real world objects and scenarios. In South East Asia countries such as Malaysia and Singapore, urban development activities are dynamic causing city inventory information to change within short periods of time. The ability to detect and track the changes on building structures located in a city can avoid loss of revenue to the urban authorities as well as improving the efficiency of a city inventory in assisting the decision making process on management level. City inventory management system should be able to store and provide information especially related to the building structure that is needed by the local authority to manage a city efficiently. Current traditional methods utilized by most urban authorities in South East Asia region are inefficient and unable to cope with current complex scenarios in urban areas. This results in some valuable information for building management and information systems being discarded. This research presents a method to boost the efficiency of some aspect in city inventory for local authorities by introducing 3D change detection method on 3D city models. The proposed method is able to detect and analyse changes that occur on 3D buildings using the 3D segmentation approach. A hybrid semantic‐geometric 3D segmentation method that deals with segmentation of a 3D building based on its semantic value and surface characteristics, fitted by one of the predefined primitives is presented. The technique is designed to retain existing semantic and geometric information and ultimately enrich it by adding more specialized information. For future work, the proposed method will be implemented as part of the auto‐updating module that is able to detect any changes on 3D buildings such as storage and retrieval of semantic information of the changed structure, and automatically update the 3D city models for analysis.
Making Distance Learning an Effective Health Information Systems Training Strategy: A Combined Social Network Analysis and Content Analysis Perspective
Authors: Siribaddana P.A.
Published: December 2017

Health Information Systems (HIS) training have been recognized as one of the important aspects of any HIS implementation which contributes to its success or failure. Providing high quality training in low resource settings have been a challenge for many HIS initiatives including for the Health Information Systems Program (HISP) with regard to its DHIS 2 implementations. In order to tackle these challenges, it was decided to introduce online distance training as a supplement to its face‐to‐face training academies. However, the interactions generated within the online training and the perceived knowledge construction was variable in different training instances. Therefore, the study made use of social network analysis (SNA) and content analysis (CA) as tools to understand the type of interactions that took place within such learning instances and the degree of knowledge constructions that was achieved through such interactions. This enabled the study to assess the best practices when utilizing online distance learning for providing HIS training in low resource settings particularly with regard to ‘short’ online training programs. The findings from the study supports the successful utilization of short online learning programs for the said purpose with adaptation of ‘best practices’ to enable participant interactions and knowledge construction.
Constraints of ICT in Lifelong Learning on Disadvantaged Women
Authors: Hallberg David , Hansson Henrik , Nilsson Anders G.
Published: December 2017

This paper draws attention to the urgency of taking into consideration women's genderspecific needs and interests in the implementation of community‐based ICT projects in lifelong learning. We set out this research to understand the constraints of information and communications technology (ICT) in lifelong learning on disadvantaged women. National statistics and data from field studies were used. The constraints and their consequences at national level are often a result of national policies and regulations – or lack thereof – while the constraints and their consequences at local/regional level involve everyday‐life occurrences that are present in women's immediate surroundings. Hence, an understanding of both levels is critical. This research is valuable for stakeholders delving into issues of development intervention using ICTs, not only in Kenya but in a broader, global perspective.
Understanding the Introduction and Use of a Mobile Device‐Supported Health Information System in Nigeria
Authors: Ezenwa Chioma , Brooks Laurence
Published: December 2017

This paper presents an in‐depth analysis of efforts to introduce a mobile health information system in Nigeria as part of a development initiative aimed at improving maternal and child health. Specifically, it examines the use of mobile devices to facilitate maternal health information accessibility and exchange among health practitioners in order to reducing maternal, newborn and child mortality. Further, it also looks at the challenges raised while introducing mobile devices into work practices in the healthcare sector.

The study adopts a case study approach, relying on semi‐structured interviews and document analysis as its main methods for collecting data. The specific case examined is a mobile phone‐based information system introduced to support a national government effort in Nigeria, known as the midwives service scheme. The findings of this study show that this integrated approach of using mobile phones to support (health) information systems has vast potential; for instance increasing the timeliness of (health) data available to stakeholders for monitoring and planning purposes. However, we also find that over time, attaining the potential of development efforts such as this remains difficult as initiatives involving the use of mobile devices is not just about getting the technical aspect right. It is equally dependent on deep seated social‐cultural influences such as poor political and financial commitment. These two mutually reinforcing influences have been identified in this study as significant impediments to efforts of this kind. Therefore, this paper argues for, first a strong political commitment across all levels of government whereby their words are backed with action. Second it is important that the government maintains financial integrity by releasing the funds budgeted to support the smooth running of these efforts, for such initiatives to thrive and ultimately contribute to development.
Issues and Challenges, Strategies and Recommendations, in the development of ICT in a small island developing state: the case of Samoa
Authors: Mow Ioana Tuugalei Chan
Published: December 2017

This paper is based on a study whose goals were to i) trace and analyse the developments of ICT in Samoa over the last 20 years, ii) identify issues and challenges in implementing these ICT developments iii) identify past and present strategies employed to resolve them and iv) from these findings make recommendations for the future in terms of policy implications, best practices and research. The conceptualisation of ICT developments, issues, challenges and strategies are based on Heeks’ Inclusive Innovation theory (Heeks, 2013), Schumpeter's development theory (2002) and Sen's capability approach (1999). Analysis of ICT developments makes use of the World Bank Infodev framework for assessing ICT projects (World Bank, 2005). Analysis, reporting and discussion of the findings are made within the Framework of Action in ICT development in the Pacific (FAIDP, 2010). From this investigation of issues and strategies, recommendations have emerged for best practice and areas for potential research.
Different Shades of Success: Educator Perceptions of Government Strategy on E‐Education in South Africa
Authors: Mooketsi Bojelo E. , Chigona Wallace
Published: December 2017

In most literature evaluating ICT4D projects in education, the yard stick used to evaluate ICT implementation in business which seeks to establish value is used. As a result most of the projects are in our opinion, wrongly deemed to have been failed. We propose that a better measure of success should consider the context in which the project exists and the perception of the intended recipients – for example a similar objective measure of project outcome could be perceived differently by people of different economic and social status. In this paper, we will demonstrate this concept by evaluating the perception of success of the implementation of an e‐learning strategy in disadvantaged areas in South Africa. Data for the study was collected through various qualitative means in selected disadvantaged areas of Cape Town. Even though a number of existing evaluations point to general failure of implementation of the e‐learning strategy, our study showed that the teachers in the disadvantaged areas considered the system a success based on the intangible benefits they derived from the implementation. Therefore this paper calls for a different way of evaluating ICT for education systems.
The Impact of Communication Technologies on the Performance of SMEs in a Developing Economy: Nigeria as a Case Study
Authors: Rufai Ibrahim Adeniyi
Published: December 2017

Informed by Social Shaping Theory (modified), this paper presents a research that examines the impact of communication technologies (mobile telephony, personal computer and internet facilities) on the performance of small and medium businesses in Lagos state, Nigeria. Results indicate that SMEs operating in different socio‐economic settings present varying performance results from the use of communication technology tools. The study was undertaken through a firm survey and also a number of semi‐structured interviews with purposively selected 100 SMEs operating in both the affluent and disadvantaged districts of the city. Using basic descriptive statistics and thematic analytical techniques for the survey and interview data respectively, major findings suggest that: 1) as communication technologies positively impact the performance of SMEs, existing socio‐economic factors within the districts where the firms operate also influence the choice of communications technology and significantly shape its impact on business performance; 2) class differences with respect to income and education disparity, as well as communication habits in the affluent and disadvantaged communities account for different outcomes in the business performance of firms; 3) the Impact of communication technologies on the local economy seems to be more prominent and significant in regard to the performance of firms operating in the affluent districts compared to the performance of firms operating in disadvantaged districts
Leveraging E‐Health for Future‐Oriented Healthcare Systems in Developing Countries
Authors: Kalema Billy M. , Kgasi Mmamolefe R.
Published: December 2017

Health IT has become a driving force for health institutions to embrace holistic integration so as to offer high‐quality diagnoses and to provide solutions designed to assist medical personnel to improve patients’ healthcare. However, success of integrating IT in healthcare has been seen mainly in developed countries. Health institutions in developing and least developed countries are still being challenged by many factors that have hindered the successful integration of IT in healthcare. Readiness has been one of the major challenges for electronic health (e‐health) implementation in developing countries’ health institutions. It is therefore essential that health institutions in developing countries carryout E‐health readiness assessment prior to its implementation. The goal of this study was to report on the E‐health readiness assessment model contextualized in developing countries. The study employed the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) to validate the data that was collected from health institutions of the rural North‐west province of South Africa. The results indicated that core readiness is the most essential element for E‐health readiness. The designed model will be used both theoretically and practically. Theoretically, it will be used in the investigation of new ways of implementing E‐health in developing countries. Practically, the model will be used to assist healthcare decision makers and governments to make informed decisions on how to grant citizens affordable access to healthcare, especially those in disadvantaged rural areas.
Transitioning Customized ACASI Windows.NET Solution to Android Java on Lower‐Priced Devices and Technical Lessons Learned
Authors: Mierzwa Stan , Souidi Samir , Austrian Karen , Hewett Paul , Isaac Adan , Maimbolwa Minyoi , Wu Chung
Published: December 2017

Research‐based organizations are continuing to find ways to leverage newer technologies in projects, specifically using lower cost hardware solutions if at all possible. There exist many electronic data collection solutions for purchase, as well as free open‐source options to assist researchers and investigators, particularly those engaged in international public health. Sometimes, however, these solutions may not meet the specific needs of the research project. In this case, organizations may opt to architect and develop a custom product. Android devices, both smartphone and tablet‐based, continue to expand into many markets globally, particularly in the developing world. These devices can be found in most major cities and local technology support for them, as well as an understanding of their operation is growing along‐side this expansion in use. Recently Google chose India to introduce the first of a series of affordable smartphones under its Android One initiative, a bid by the company to win over the “next billion” users in emerging economies (Rai, Saritha 2014). Software developers may be required to transfer existing developed applications and programs to operate on the new Android‐based devices. In our case we had a working Microsoft.NET program developed in the C# programming language that works well on Windows‐based laptops and tablets, but it could not be used on the lower priced Android units. Converting the.NET application or at least the heavier programming logic in the application, to the Java language may be possible and the details of performing this task are discussed in this paper.
Towards a Framework for Accessing Agricultural Market Information
Authors: Magesa Mawazo M. , Michael Kisangiri , Ko Jesuk
Published: December 2017

Making markets work for the poor in rural communities involves different stakeholders. Management, development partners, private sector and NGOs are accustomed to ensure enabling infrastructure is provided. Access to markets requires good transport and low transaction cost accompanied with recent market information. To provide market information to rural community, stakeholders may initiate the program by providing funds and finding the means of ensuring the sustainability of the program. Delivering market information requires established ICT infrastructure and capable staffing. Thus, a framework to access agricultural market information requires management to provide infrastructure and funding, and also to ensure rural areas are equipped with the technology.
Citizens’ Use of New Media in Authoritarian Regimes: A Case Study of Uganda
Authors: Grönlund Åke , Wakabi Wairagala
Published: December 2017

By subsidizing the costs of civic participation, the use of the Internet use is believed to stimulate participation but there are fears that intensive Internet use causes withdrawal from public life. This paper investigates the connection between the way individuals participate online and offline in authoritarian, low‐income regimes, and the nature of eParticipation among citizens in authoritarian regimes such as Uganda. Based on personal interviews with 116 Internet users, the study found that common drivers of eParticipation, such as low cost, security and anonymity are hard to transplant into the offline world for citizens of authoritarian states such as Uganda. Perceived risks of retribution and intimidation for expressing a particular opinion or supporting a political cause mean that citizen‐to‐citizen participation is the predominant form but still at low levels, while citizen‐to‐government participation is negligible.