A new driving force behind capacity building in Africa: group support systems

Abstract

This paper explores, through a number of case studies, the application of group support systems for capacity building initiatives in various sectors in Africa. A model is introduced on the adoption of GSS in an African context. Notwithstanding skeptical expectations with respect to the successful application of the technology, the results clearly indicate that: there is support from key participants and top managers to use the technology; computer illiteracy does not seem to hinder successful GSS application; electronic communication does not get in the way of the traditional verbal meeting culture; and participants were very satisfied with the technology, the process, and the results of the electronic meetings. The case studies show the potential of applying GSS to give new momentum to capacity building and capacity mobilization efforts in Africa.