Conditions for health information systems in South Africa : Small-scale initiatives to promote development from within

Abstract

The main topics in this thesis are information and communication technology(ICT; used interchangeably with IT) and development, and health information systems development in South Africa. The thesis is based on field work in South Africa, primarily performed during three months of 1999.

Who can read this thesis? Little background knowledge on the themes of this thesis is required. The most central concepts of information systems and systems development are explained to ensure readability to the people who provided me with help and support during my field work. This is also the main reason why I have chosen to write it in English. (As this is not my first language, errors, typos and americanisms will have to be excused.)

To ensure readability also outside of the studied project’s core team, little background knowledge on globalization and health issues, or the South African context, is required. One copy of the thesis will also be sent to the Norsk Fredskorps, partial funders of my case study. I hope this thesis have value for people currently involved in processes similar to the one described in the thesis.