Information for development: experiences of the International Development Research Centre
Paul McConnell · Information Development · 1990
The first in a series of articles on the activities of the Information Sciences Division (ISD) of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) introduces IDRC in general and ISD in particular. It traces the evolution of ISD as a substantive programme devoted to tackling information problems in developing countries, and reviews how the Division has responded to the changing global information environment of the past two decades. Statistics are provided on where and on what activities ISD resources have been directed over the years. General programme areas are described with examples of types of projects supported, including specialized information centres, non-bibliographic systems, networks, information technologies and human resources development, all of which are aimed at contributing to the social and economic advancement of developing countries. Also examined are inhouse information activities, including IDRC's Library and bibliographic services, and the Computer Systems Group responsible for MINISIS software. Concludes with a look at various elements in the current information environment that are influencing the future direction of ISD so that it can remain responsive to the needs of developing countries.