Technology has transformed our life, making everything apparently easier and faster. Processes that used to be time demanding and problematic are now easily managed with several solutions provided by new technologies. However, when implementing IT solutions several facts should be taken into account, especially in donor-funded projects. After developing our MIS tool, we have experienced this and now we want to share our experiences.
1. Technology is more than equipment
IT solutions make our life easier by speeding up processes, integrating information at one place and sharing knowledge among project stakeholders. However, strategic and managerial skills are needed to drive the whole team responsible for the project in order to have one strategic goal to pursue. Transferring knowledge in project management thus involves not only the appropriate use of IT solutions, but also leadership of experienced project managers and ownership of project stakeholders in order to make sure that all share the same goal.
2. Choice of technology
Although most IT solutions are to some extent flexible and adaptable, few understand the complexity and dynamics of project management, especially with donor-funded projects. Donors have very specific requirements, which need to be captured in the processes modelled by an adequate IT solution. We had difficulties to find an adequate IT solution on the market, which is why a specific and tailor-made tool for our projects was needed.
3. Adaptation and change
Changed and new IT solutions aim at improving existence performance but this is not always perceived in the first place. The users need to be aware of all the features, fully understand them and their advantages, and integrate the IT solution in their natural work processes in order to feel how the personal experiences is improved. The change needs to start from the perspective of each user, so that everyone understands and feels the improvement. Ease and user-friendliness is a essential when choosing a tool. Nobody wants more tasks; an IT solution should make a job easier.
SOURCE: Donor‐funded information technology transfer projects: Evaluating the life‐cycle approach in four Chinese science and technology projects. Information Technology for Development. 8 (4) 185-197, 1999
