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Strengthening the knowledge and information systems of the urban poor : policy paper

SCHILDERMAN, Theo
April 2002

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This brief policy paper summarises the findings of a research project that focused on the information needs of the urban poor, and the information sources they access. The study found that the main sources of information were social networks, key informants, and infomediaries. It ends with six suggestions for development agencies seeking to share their knowledge and information with the urban poor

Strengthening the knowledge and information systems of the urban poor

SCHILDERMAN, Theo
March 2002

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Presents the findings of a research project that focused on the information needs of the urban poor, and the information sources they access. The study found that the main sources of information were social networks, key informants, and infomediaries. It considers the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs), and impact assessment methods. It ends with suggestions for development agencies seeking to share their knowledge and information with the urban poor

Can ICTs help the urban poor access information and knowledge to support their livelihoods?

SCHILDERMAN, Theo
2001

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This paper is based on a research project undertaken by ITDG and funded by DFID in to the knowledge and information systems of the urban poor. Using an action research approach, the research team found that the urban poor do require knowledge and information to improve their livelihoods, but there are gaps in what is offered; that social networks are the biggest information source, followed by key informants; that a wide range of 'infomediaries' supplies information, but again their are gaps; and that although there are a number of cases of strengthening the knowledge and information systems of the urban poor, ICTs are not yet playing a major role here

Development gateway

DEVELOPMENT GATEWAY FOUNDATION

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The Development Gateway portal provides a space for communities to share experiences on development efforts. The portal supports the Development Gateway Foundation's knowledge-sharing efforts through services such as an online directory for information on development projects (AiDA), an electronic procurement market (dgMarket), information on major development topics (Topic Pages), and links to a growing network of country-level initiatives (Country Gateways). By offering users virtual interactive communities centered on development issues, the portal's Topic Pages encourage knowledge-sharing and help improve collaboration among development practitioners. Expert guides and global topic advisors work with their communities to highlight the most relevant and useful resources available on the Internet. The topic pages enable you to share knowledge and locate resources on a variety of development topics; build a community of experience around development topics through individual member contributions; receive free email alerts and newsletters; and make connections with thousands of registered users

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