ICD Communities of Practice

In recent years, several online communities have been created that focus specifically on areas related to information and communication for development (ICD). Members of these communities use them as virtual meeting places to exchange information and advice, and organizations seeking help often find them to be a valuable resource. They can offer a wealth of knowledge and a place to find other organizations that have tried different ICD techniques and are willing to share their experiences.

The Programme will develop, as required, electronic communities on specific topics related to ICD in support of rural livelihoods. The programme is also fostering links with existing communities that have relevant coverage, including those listed below.

• The Communication Initiative (CI) is a network and resource page seeking to provide a forum for ideas, stories and actions and to connect users to information that will be of value in their work.



• The International Association of Agricultural Information Specialists (IAALD) facilitates the professional development of, and communication among, members of the agricultural information community worldwide to enhance access to and use of agriculture-related information resources.



• Digital Divide Network (DDN) is the Internet's largest community for educators, activists, policy makers and concerned citizens working to bridge the digital divide. The site enables users to build their own online communities, publish web diaries (blogs) and share documents.



• Learning and Evaluation Action Programme – Information Management, Performance and Communication Technologies (LEAP IMPACT) is a community of practice open to all individuals/organizations interested in the evaluation of information. The site aims to improve the institutional performance of monitoring and evaluation related to services, products and projects in the field of information.



• Telecentre.org is an initiative that builds and supports the capacity of local telecentre operators around the world.



• Development Gateway: The Development Gateway Foundation uses ICT to build partnerships and information systems that provide access to knowledge for development.