Information Systems Practice for Development in Africa: Results from Indehela

Submitted by Super Admin on Mon, 2009-07-13 16:23

Publication Type:

IFIP Paper

Authors:

Mikko Korpela; Anja Mursu; Soriyan, H.; de la Harpe, Retha; Esselina Macome

Source:

Social Inclusion: Societal and Organizational Implications for Information Systems, p.15 - 35 (2006)

Abstract:

In this paper we search for answers to the question: Can information systems development (ISD) in Africa by African IS practitioners contribute to human development in Africa? More specifically, we ask if everyday ISD practice in Nigeria can contribute to
people’s health in Nigeria. We summarize the results of European-African research collaboration spanning more than 15 years.
A spectrum of research methods was used from 1998 through 2001, including a survey on software industry (N = 103), a survey
on IS education in universities (N = 26), five case studies in industry, and reflection on action in a university-based project.
An industry profile of software companies and their ISD practice is presented and contrasted with the education available.
Implications are drawn for ISD practitioners and methodological lessons identified for IS research in general. In the discussion,
the view is expanded from Nigeria to other African and developing countries.

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