Is there a user in the house? Connecting with the user of information services

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Abstract
The fifth in a series of articles on the activities of the Information Sciences Division (ISD) of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Discusses some factors affecting the use of information products and services, particularly among the least privileged sectors of society. Argues in favour of developing indigenous capabilities for collecting, processing and disseminating both locally- and externally-generated information. Stresses the importance of socio-cultural factors in the communication of information, especially in societies with an oral tradition, and the pivotal role played by community development workers in disseminating information. Advocates the application of the principles of participatory communication in which people are more directly involved in generating, using and exchanging information suited to the information needs which they have defined themselves.