GIS Implementation for Health Management in Malawi: Opportunities to Share Knowledge between Implementers and Users

摘要

Knowledge is recognized as the most important resource in organisations, including public organisations, and its management is considered critical to organisational success. In organisations, knowledge and skills of employees in using computer systems have become a critical factor for successful use of information and communication technologies (ICT). Even the literature of Geographic Information System (GIS) in developing countries has discussed several challenges, including lack of knowledge and skills, in the implementation and use of GIS. The literature further recommends knowledge sharing and collaboration as some means of acquiring and accumulating knowledge. The argument is that knowledge multiplies when it is shared effectively. The concept of knowledge has been discussed in information system (IS) and organisation literature with few studies on knowledge in public sector as compared to those in private sector. However, much is written about ‘why’ managing knowledge and little on ‘how’ knowledge is identified, captured, shared and used within organisations. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to explore opportunities for sharing knowledge between implementers and users in the public health sector during the implementation of an information system using the case of DHIS2 GIS for health management in Malawi. This is the case study and it has employed qualitative interpretive methods with the aim of understanding social and natural settings of GIS implementers and users and their knowledge sharing practices. The study has used multiple choices of data sources. It has been observed that interactions between implementers and users are mainly through work teams, training, emails and manuals. There is little utilization of technology-based systems. The study recommends to CMED to explore the potential benefits of technology in knowledge creation, sharing and use. Literature argues that social computer applications assist greatly in reducing formal communication barriers and open new possibilities for organisations to boost knowledge creation and sharing.