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The formation and implementation of strategy with respect to computer-based information systems (IS) are important issues in many contemporary organizations, including those in the financial services sector. This paper describes and analyzes an in-depth case study of the strategy formation and implementation process in one such organization, a medium-sized UK building society, and relates the process to its organizational and broader contexts; the organization is examined over a period of several years and under the contrasting leadership of two different chief executives. The case study is used to develop some general implications on IS strategy and implementation, which can be taken as themes for debate in any new situation. The paper provides an example of a more detailed perspective on processes in IS strategy and implementation than typically available in the literature. In addition, a new framework for further research in this area is developed, which directs the researcher toward exploring the dynamic interplay of strategic content, multilevel contexts, and cultural and political perspectives on the process of change.

Computer-based information systems should be conceptualised as social systems in which technology is only one of the dimensions. This broader perspective on information systems offers opportunities for a deeper understanding of their development and use. The social systems approach is illustrated in the paper by two research projects in the UK on the evaluation of information systems and information systems strategy formulation. The relevance of the UK research to a developing country context is discussed and it is argued that methodologies which aim to provide an understanding of the organisational, social and political context are highly suitable for organisations in developing countries. Some implications are drawn for research, education and practice related to information systems in developing countries. IntroductionComputer-based information systems are often taken to be technical systems and behavioural and organisational issues are relegated to a secondary role or are not considered at all. However, the problems of implementation of information systems are well known and invariably they concern an interplay of human, organisational and technical factors which cannot be easily separated. In our view, this complex interlinking can best be addressed by conceptualising computer-based information systems as social systems in which technology is only one of the elements. This broader perspective on information systems offers opportunities for deeper understanding of the context for information systems development and implementation. We argue in this paper that the social systems paradigm

In Africa, where we have enormous and varied challenges in accessing higher education, there is need for relevant and customized content that is specific to our needs and challenges. Most of the models that exist to address these challenges have their limitations in terms of flexibility, time and space constraints and hence the need to address the mitigating factors. A blend of different types of information and communication technologies can be used in innovative ways in order to resolve some of these limitations. However, the same technologies brings about other challenges such as the costs that are associated and change of attitude and training on the part of the e-content developers. These challenges must be addressed for successful introduction of the same in an educational setup. In this paper, electronic learning is proposed as one of the main ways of overcoming some of the key challenges in accessing education. We argue that electronic learning models should be sensitive to the level of availability of infrastructure, technical support, and clear policy on implementation, evaluation and curriculum reorientation. We propose an e-learning implementation model that can be used by educational institutions in introducing e-learning technologies to their staff and students. The model is a modification of Rogers'model of diffusion of innovation in organizations and has been developed from experiences and experiments conducted over a period of three years at the University of Nairobi. The steps involved in the proposed model are described and for each step factors that meliorate the situation are identified and put into perspective. System flowcharts have been developed and used to visualize the processes and the interrelatedness of the steps. We have contextualized the model to suit various parametric values that are dependent on cost, level of infrastructural support and staff motivation and commitment.

We describe our approach and initial results in the participatory design of technology relevant to local rural livelihoods. Our approach to design and usability proceeds from research in theory and practice of crosscultural implementations, but the novelty is in beginning not with particular technologies but from community needs, and structuring technology in terms of activities. We describe our project aims and initial data collected, which show that while villagers have no clear mental models for using computers or the Internet, they show a desire to have and use them. We then describe our approach to interaction design, our expectations and next steps as the technology and activities are first introduced to the villages.