Untitled DocumentOverview
NDI is optimally positioned to succeed with ICT-related programs not only because we can bridge the gap in developing IT systems with our partners, but also because of our existing relationships and deep contacts in dozens of countries around the world. In order to assist in building an effective IT system a strong relationship with our partner is required including crucial support and buy-in from senior leadership and an excellent understanding of their business processes and objectives. NDI has program staff around the world that has established these relationships and is involved in various forms of institutional support. Such support inevitably uncovers core needs within the partner organizations that technology may assist in addressing and we are uniquely qualified to deliver such services. The ability of NDI to complement our program staff with the skills to assess proposed IT systems and assist in developing estimates of initial and ongoing budgets for building such systems is unique. And we are then able to back up the proposed projects with the skills to implement sustainable IT programs.
NDI's approach to democratic programming using Internet or related technologies is built on a sustainability strategy that drives the planning, assessment, implementation and program evaluation. Technology programming typically involves building systems (websites, databases, communication networks, etc.) and thus requires organizational changes within our partner institutions in order to maintain the systems. Our technology programming must be sustained well beyond the time that the program is complete, and thus the biggest challenge to NDI ICT programming isn't usually technical, but organizational - training managers to manage and budget for systems, training staff to maintain them and training target audiences to use them. Unlike many aspects of NDI programming where knowledge and experience is shared among democratic leaders or value is added through documenting and sharing democracy-building experience, building sustainable IT systems requires a different approach. Sustainability means that when Internet or other IT systems are developed, a parallel process of building capacity within the partner organization to support and maintain the system must be ensured and that the partner must form the necessary relationships within their country to secure all their ongoing equipment, support and services needs. This approach is usually not the cheapest in terms of initial investment, requires a longer-term engagement (several months to several years), and often results in delays in programs while the partner organization aligns its staffing and budgeting requirements to meet the long-term commitment of supporting the systems. However, it is the most effective and sustainable long-term approach that allows NDI and our donors' funds to continue to bring value to our partners and support democratic development long after we have moved on.
Contact Information
For further information on information and communications technology, please contact:
Chris Spence
Director, Technology Strategy and Programs Send Email
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