Content category selection towards a maturity matrix for ICT4D knowledge sharing platforms

Abstract

Research involving the use of information and communication technology for development (ICT4D) inhabits a contested space characterized by varying philosophies, aspirations,realities and priorities. The uncontested fact is that an improved understanding of the different perspectives and increased awareness of the extant research would be beneficial in terms of supporting research collaboration and evaluation. Open knowledge sharing platforms (KSPs) are tools that could be used to support knowledge sharing and collaboration but only if the KSPs are accessible and the content is useful to the target audience. The purpose of this study is to investigate a content category selection towards a maturity matrix for ICT4D KSPs. KSPs are similar to knowledge management systems used in government and private organizations, but important differences also exist. We start out with a content analysis of selected KSPs to identify a set of core functions expected from an ICT4D KSP. These core functions are clustered, prioritized and evaluated against the maturity levels proposed for knowledge management systems. The contribution of this paper is to propose essential content categories for the design of an open, accessible KSP and relate these to maturity levels via a matrix. The maturity matrix is proposed as a step towards developing a maturity model for KSPs in future, which is meant to link existing ICT4D KSPs for supporting research collaboration and knowledge sharing in the field of ICT4D.