The responsibility and the response: sustaining information systems in developing countries

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Abstract
This article examines the issue of the sustainability of information systems in developing countries. While the availability and use of information is often taken for granted in our daily lives, it is important to recognize its potentially tremendous value when applied towards a particular need or task, specifically with respect to meeting development objec tives. This is a fact that many Third World countries do not appreciate, hence, the general lack of attention and support. in developing countries, to the establishment and mainte nance of adequate national information systems and services This article discusses the level of information use and the general state of information systems in developing countries It then goes on to outline the findings ot a recent study that empirically explored the issue of sustainability of information systems in developing countries Recommendations for the creation and enhancement of conditions conducive to sustain ability are presented to three groups — development plan ners, information professionals and aid agencies — each of whom are urged to work, individually and collectively, to develop programs to limit disparities in the development process; support "needs-based" information programs, ser vices and activities and provide the necessary financial and infrastructural support.