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Failure, Success and Improvisation of Information Systems Projects in Developing Countries

Citation:

Heeks, R. (2002). Failure, Success and Improvisation of Information Systems Projects in Developing Countries. Development Informatics Working Paper Series, No.11/2002. Manchester: Institute for Development Policy and Management. Retrieved January 04, 2006 from http://www.sed.manchester.ac.uk/idpm/publications/wp/di/di_wp11.htm

Work data:

Type of work: Working Paper

Categories:

ICT4D

Original name: Information systems and developing countries: Failure, success, and local improvisations

Abstract:

Most information systems - including current ICT projects - in developing countries fail either totally or partially. This paper develops a model which explains those high rates of failure. The model is based on the notion of design-reality gaps: the match or mismatch between IS designs and local user reality. It helps identify three high risk archetypes that affect IS projects in developing countries: country context gaps, ’hard-soft’ gaps and private-public gaps. The model explains the ways in which these gaps can be reduced through local improvisations in developing countries. It therefore provides guidance on generic ways in which the success rates of IS projects in developing countries can be increased.