Planning, implementing and managing CD‐ROM services in developing countries

This paper discusses some issues and challenges which library information systems in developing countries have faced in planning, implementing and managing CD‐ROM services. It focuses on the measures taken to solve these challenges in terms of planning, funding, hardware, software, database selection, installation, staff and user training, publicity, use policies and procedures, document non‐availability and evaluation. The paper concludes that the implementation of CD‐ROM in developing countries will continue growing, and that users will increasingly become more sophisticated and will keep demanding better CD‐ROM resources and services. In order to cope with these demands, institutions involved in implementing CD‐ROM services will continue pursuing the current trend of adopting resourceful, creative and innovative approaches in tackling the challenges posed by the implementation of CD‐ROM. Finally the paper recommends, among other things, that it is crucial to develop a new vision based on a thorough needs assessment to guide library information systems in planning, implementing and developing user‐oriented CD‐ROM. It is also strongly recommended that a partnership approach between library information systems and relevant departments (like information technology departments), funding organisations, CD‐ROM publishers and vendors is crucial for developing sustainable CD‐ROM services.