3. How can we establish processes to make information about benefits and results of impact analysis systematically available?

The first thing we need to think about is 'who' is it we want to get the impact analysis to: farmers, extension agents, development professionals. This should provide some context for whom we are trying to target since it is important to think of audience rather than at general levels which can get confusing and lead the dilution of impact of the system. For instance if we look at LAD and Lao44 as to examples of "clearing houses" or repositories. LAD is for a wider audience and has both Lao and English and is focused on both research and development. Lao44 is solely focused on lao language materials though for a broader range of topics. However, the fact that it is in Lao language makes it much more appealing to the Lao people.
 
IN terms of classification and organization of information, i would argue that we need to need less classification and more ways to make it easeir for users to access information. The current systems employed at a global level are too generic and complicated to be used at the local level. Again, with the case of Lao44. There are no standards really but rather a clearing house where information is stored. How it is used is another issue.
 
SOmething that is forgotten in ICT4D is the whole point of socialiazation and face to face interaction. THis is important to become a 'trusted source' of information. There are too many cloud systems, repositories or standard solutions out there but they are not linked to building 'communities'. Again, i think lao44 and LaoFab are instructive. The first step was developing a community through the discussion groups. the repositories came second. I think this is important becuase it is first important to develop trust and then information will be used and shared more effectively. I think the same is true with the sourcebook and other products we made where the partnerships propelled use in the end...

 We (Sarvodaya-Fusion, Sri Lanka + eNovation, UK) started working on Social Impact of ICT4D, since early 2009. Our first step was to define 'theoretical framework', and finally sorted out 'Theory of Change' as the main framework to apply. Then we have defined measuring indicators, and pilot tested their validity. Subsequently, developed a presentation model (Star graph with a time series analysis). Now this model is adapted regular basis to measure the impact of Fusion-Education program offered at national scale in Sri Lanka. For further details pl see following links and your comments / critique are most welcome;
First entry point in 2009; 'Theory of Change' document
Blog update about indicators; Impact of ICT for Development? What is it? 
Latest progress update in slide presentation: Can we apply social impact assessment tools to understand the Bottom of Pyramid community needs?

At the International centre for Integrated mountain Development (ICIMOD) we have scheduled a literature study on ICT4D in the HKH region. Up until now we have not seen sustainable ICT4D projects in the mountainous areas of the Hindu Kush Himalayan with its est population of 220 million poor people a significant number. The rural poor in the HKH are excluded from various benefits ICT can bring but the specific conditions in the HKH makes it apparently more difficult to apply ICT4D on a sustainable way. We have seen some positive examples but very few and its our aim to look more into the application of ICTs and their successes and failures through an impact pathways study. We will share the results thought his network.
 

I agree with the view above that ICT in mountainous and hilly areas are a little different due to a host of reasons like topography, population dispersal, unhospitable terrain, geography, weather and infrastructural issues. At the same time, In North East India, mobile telephony has been able to penetrate such rural areas which were earlier unreached by telecom. This has open a wide space for ICT to play a role in filling the information gap and deficit. States like Himachal Pradesh have also used VSAT in high elevation to provide connectivity to mountainous areas. If ICT has to made headway in such areas, the device of choice should be the mobile phone and information and ICT applications has to be built on this platform. Although the NeGP in India is a very ambitious programme, it will take time to be successful in reaching those who need such ICT intervention to change their lives.