Information and knowledge management: challenges for capacity builders

The paper explores ways to improve information capacity building activities in developing countries. Focusing on the capacity building process, it presents some principles and key questions for actors in this area.

Capacity building for the information sector can be very different to in other sectors. This is due to distinct characteristics of the information sector which include: the manner in which information multiplies, its speed, high profile and pervasiveness. It requires different models of partnership and co-operation, ownership and evaluation.

The paper argues that capacity ‘building’ efforts should be organised around partnerships where mutually beneficial relationships are fostered and capacities are mobilised and shared. It offers a set of priciples for such partnerships:

• forge new relationships
• foster ownership
• focus on processes
• give priority to local capacities
• use open standards
• prepare an exit strategy

The paper advocates capacity sharing for capacity builders in the information sector to bring together the multiple intitiatives in this field.