Open Source Models: Making Inroads in Zimbabwean Library Information Services and lessons learnt in implementing ABCD ILS
Open Source Models: Making Inroads in Zimbabwean Library Information Services and lessons learnt in implementing ABCD Integrated Library and Digital Management System
Author: Bhowa tg, Infoprenuer, zimisis bhowatg@gmail.com; http://bhowatg.blogspot.com
Paper presented at the 4th African Conference on Digital Scholarship and Curation, May 16-19 2011, CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa
© Bhowa tg 2011
Abstract:
Thrust- the thrust of this article is to describe the effective use of appropriate Open Source Library Systems to disseminate information in arresting the vagaries of poverty and development in Zimbabwe. The role and challenges faced by libraries and documentation/information centres in implementing Open Source Models are discussed. In reality is Open Source a Reality or Option? Finally, a variety of recommendations are offered and the conclusion is drawn that libraries and information professionals must adopt and implement Open Source Models by manipulating appropriate ICT tools and applications.
Methodology/approach: Literature search, web site information and personal interaction with key persons associated with various Open Source Model projects.
Findings: The generality of Zimbabwean library information services is very knowledgeable about integrated library systems, its different modes either proprietary or open source, ways to source and manipulate these options. Libraries and information centres can make a huge impact on local communities by adopting, implementing and manipulating Open Source Models such as ABCD taking full advantage of ICTs and hopefully make a meaningful contribution in effective dissemination of appropriate information services. There is perceived need for providing relevant information services through libraries/information centres in collaboration with like minded Open Source based individuals and institutions such as NGOs to both urban and rural Zimbabweans who are increasingly demanding the right to developmental based information for their daily decisions. However, awareness of Open Source Models or generally ICT tools and applications is low, both in urban and non-urban Zimbabwe. One positive solution is to increase take-up and run Open Source Model awareness campaigns through manipulation and maximization of available and appropriate ICT tools and applications.
Keywords: Open Source Models; ABCD; FOSS; Open Source; Libraries; Information Professionals; Zimbabwe
Background and Context
Zimbabwe has a low urban and high rural population density, high literacy levels comparable worldwide and consequently, high levels of awareness of developmental information which is one of the most challenging problems faced by the country’s library and information centres in delivering an effective information dissemination service. Rightfully, information is the first vital step in development; we know and appreciate the consequences of ignorance about the importance of information and how it is disseminated can generate fear and prejudice towards those who are in need. Libraries and information centres through information professionals need to care about this and act on it. This article suggests Open Source Model-based measures that might be adopted, based on the literature review of best practices on the manipulation of integrated library systems in other countries developing or developed. Implementing Open Source Models in Zimbabwean libraries and information centres is simple but not a simple task, as we have multiplicity of major problems ranging from technical to outright detest for change. To overcome such challenges, with the use of convergence technologies such as ABCD these barriers maybe history. Innovative strategies in manipulation of Open Source Models in the dissemination of developmental information are needed. It’s a fact that awareness and manipulation of Open Source Models is higher among the urban based libraries. For the unfortunate libraries they need to take full advantage of the power and flexibility of ICTs?
Demystifying Open Source Models
Traditionally all academic treatises begin with a definition of terms and in keeping with tradition this writer will attempt to provide a working definition or understanding of the following related or interchangeable concepts, Open Culture, Open Society, Open Sharing and Open Source Models.
The President and CEO of Malaysia’s state-owned ICT Company MIMOS Berhad, Dr Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeem, made the following interesting observation ‘in terms of open source, we have new opportunities. They come about because there is a new movement of sharing. And the open source system is just one manifestation of this culture. The networks we have created through the internet allow this sharing to happen in a very efficient way.’
Robert Kramer, Vice President (CompTIA), further agreed that open source offers new opportunities. These, he noted, need to be added to the opportunities already available through closed source software. He further argues that the idea of having a rich set of choices in software that adds both the opportunity of open source and those in commercial software is really the way to go.
From an African perspective, Bildad Kagai, CEO of a Kenyan open source company and Coordinator of the Free Software and Open Source Foundation for Africa (FOSSFA), reinforced the above thoughts by stating that Open source and free software is the way to go for us (Africans), but there are many challenges, including policy issues.
Kramer further contends that, Open Source Software (OSS), hybrid and proprietary options currently compete head-to-head in almost every market around the world. It’s a fact that OSS is among the fastest growing and most competitive classes of software in today’s market.
What is Open Source?
According to Wiegel et.al (2004), OSS is a computer program whose source code is made available for use or modification as users or other developers see fit. Historically, proprietary software developers have not made source code available.
Other schools of thought refer Open Source Software as Free Open Source Software (FOSS), which can be freely used, modified and distributed. Further it allows software developers and users to customize, change or add functionalities by joining the global open production processes. Licensing is key to Open Source and does not entail paying license fees. This basically fortifies what Wiegel and others propagated in their discussions at the ICT4D forum in 2004.
Freedom not cost
Except for free licenses, Open Source is not cost free but gives users four essential freedoms:
• The freedom to run the program, for any purpose (freedom 0)
• The freedom to study how the program works, and adapt it to your needs (freedom 1)
• The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help your neighbor (freedom 2)
• The freedom to improve the program, and release your improvements (and modified versions in general) to the public (freedom 3)
Access to the source code is a precondition for freedoms 1 and 3. This is the major obstacle with proprietary software as the source code is often a patent of the individual company.
Closed Source vs. Open Source
FOSS
Proprietary Software
1. Access code, 'Free' download and reuse
• Buy, don't build or code
2. Freedom to modify, customize and sell
• Vendor lock-in
3. Everyone can customize software according to his/her own needs
• Lack customized features for some customers
4. Can be localized in many languages
• Deployed in limited languages
5. Motivation: Extrinsic and intrinsic
• Motivation: Extrinsic, financial gains
6. Generate and share knowledge for common good
• Generate and keep knowledge for competitive advantage
7. Support can be obtained by anyone from project forums, mailing lists, etc. or bought from commercial vendors, distributors, or consultancy firms
• Support provided to license holders and on first-come first serve basis. Third-party support, driver download, software updates is also provided on websites
8. Ease of compliance with other copyleft community-maintained FOSS (universe) and software restricted by legal issues (multiverse)
• Difficulty in compliance with other software due to copyright restrictions
Clearing FOSS Myths
Fact Myth
Over 400,000 FOSS projects (18,000 mature) in all fields of IT It's a Linux vs. Windows thing
Major FOSS solutions are more reliable than proprietary counterparts; professional support available for FOSS FOSS is not reliable or supported
About 90% of Fortune 1000 companies deploy FOSS; Google, IBM, Sun, HP, Oracle... promote FOSS Big companies don't use FOSS
FOSS licenses are based on the copyright law FOSS is hostile to "intellectual property“
HP: $2.5B in 2003; RedHat: $750M in 200 There is no money to be made on FOSS
>50% FOSS developers are paid, others volunteer and contribute for personal motivations The FOSS movement is unfair and unsustainable, because programmers don't get paid for their efforts
Community growth requires significant investment If I start a FOSS project, plenty of developers will start working for me for nothing
FOSS spearheads a new innovation model that all should know about FOSS is a programmer thing, users and decision-makers should not worry about it
The percentage of innovative projects (12%) is roughly the same in FOSS and proprietary software FOSS is always playing catch-up with the commercial world, where all innovation comes from
ABCD
Clever/Simple/Free
ABCD is an acronym for a software suite for the Automation of Libraries and Documentation centres and available in four major languages
Spanish 'Automatisación de Bibliotécas y Centros de Documentación',
French (Automation des Bibliothèques et Centres de Documentacion)
Portugese (Automatizaçãodas Bibliotecas e dos Centros de Documentação).
ABCD is a web based system for the automation of processes, workflows, functions, products and services typical for libraries and documentation and information centers. ABCD belongs to the ISIS family of software for storage and retrieval of textual, structured information, focused on bibliographic information sources and associated services. It is multilingual (supports 4 languages), multiplatform (windows & linux), multicultural, compatible with international standards (ISO 2709), generally flexible and configurable, capable of dealing with the automation of all kinds of libraries and documentation centers.
It consists of the following features;
Best tools built-in i.e. Z39.50 (allows access to remote/online databases)
Friendly & beautiful. Users fall in love with the simple & elegant interface.
Community of support. ABCD has a polite, supportive & accessible user support community & approachable development communities
Safe & Functional. ABCD like all free packages is much more secure from viruses & attacks
Uses fewer resources. Yup, even your low-end PC can run ABCD. ABCD does not need high RAM, high CPU speed, and bigger hard disk space. Everything is neat & small
Not difficulty & not for geek only. ABCD is not difficult to use. Some people think that you need too know programming to use ABCD, its not for the GEEK but for the human being
as a librarian-oriented tool based on LIS principles rather than computer or programming principles
as a tool for developing countries provides LIS workers with a very powerful tool, which takes into account some specific realities, such as: low availability of ICT skills, Bandwidth & Connectivity
The development, maintenance and distribution of ABCD follows the free and open source software (FOSS) modality, under coordination of BIREME with the support of the Consortium of Flemish Universities (VLIR/UOS - and the ISIS community of users and developers, represented in solely in Zimbabwe by zimisis.
The ABCD system integrates applications for online automation of database creation and management, using open protocols for web based interoperability, cataloguing of document collections, import/export of records, acquisitions and two lending modules - basic and advanced with statistics, periodicals control, creation, configuration and management of websites and OPAC with advanced search system.
.
Implementing ABCD in Zimbabwe
The following approaches have been used in implementing and manipulating ABCD, which usually takes two full days to be operational inclusive of training. On enquiry we discuss with the prospective client their needs, giving them the various options ABCD offers. After thorough discussions the following approaches are taken, firstly complete customization and configuration. This option is inclusive of all modules i.e. database administration, cataloguing, loans and acquisitions. The alternative option is the above but implementing only selective modules. Training is at two levels and modular approach is used, firstly operational skills transfer which is equivalent to basic training and the second level is advanced technical skills transfer suited for those more interested in technical aspects of ABCD. The training can be in-house or workshop type centred. It should be noted that most clients are interested in the end product, and not the geek part, in other words we take care of the technical configuration aspect and demonstrate and implement an operational skills transfer.
ABCD has been implemented and is being manipulated countrywide with Zimbabwe Open University being our largest client with the main library and ten regional libraries. Our selective client list is as follows (2010-11);
Government:
National Free Library of Zimbabwe
Forestry Industries Training Centre
Geological Survey
Ministry of Agriculture
Harare Polytechnic
Seke Teachers College
United College of Education
Mutare Polytechnic
Zimbabwe School of Mines
Morgan Zintec College
NGOs:
Zimbabwe Economic Policy Analysis and Research Unit (ZEPARU)
Centre for Conflict Management and Transformation
Law Society of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Women's Resource Centre and Network (ZWRCN)
Oxfam Australia
Schools:
Hellenic International Academy
Hillcrest College
Universities:
Zimbabwe Open University LIS (HQ & 10 regional libraries)
Challenges in the implementation of ABCD
a. The number one challenge is that the open source model is very new concept. Open source model is a completely different way of working, one that requires a lot of voluntary help. In the open source movement there is an ‘obligation to share’, and to ‘share alike’.
b. Difficulties in acquiring enough technical competence in manipulation of the code and share alike at the same level as other developers
c. Another major challenge is migration, which we have experienced when moving from proprietary systems to open source. The greatest challenge is not technical, but human. Most people do not like to change from one system to another; they just resist any change. But experience has shown that this obstacle can be overcome.
d. Adaptation mentality, anything that is FREE is of inferior quality and becomes even more intriguing when it is locally supported. The notion that anything foreign is superior over local is lekker still holds sway.
e. Compatibility issues related to data formats developed by proprietary systems vendors, which sometimes appear to put obstacles in the way of compatibility. This is a temporary situation as they are now ways of overseeing the problem, with the emergence of communities of OS developers. The new open sharing culture ensures that answers are received from a community of thousands of volunteers worldwide.
f. Open is not necessarily FREE. There are costs associated with OSS even if this is given for free. It is assumed that if its free, expertise and labour are also free
g. Open source models are not considered to be viable in Zimbabwe, a problem which is attributed to lack of knowledge and appreciation. An issue which has to do with ownership, licensing and copyright of open source as compared to proprietary systems.
Acknowledging the above, each time we turn on the news or going to the office we are faced with change, sometimes momentous, sometimes minor. We are told change is the new normality and as we find ourselves approaching the turn of the century, the notion that we are living in a changing world is almost a cliché. Nonetheless, it is borne of real experience, and the fact that it is a cliché does not take away the stress and difficult that introducing change can mean (Maher and Hall, 1998).
Our response to the above noted challenges has been adoption of a strategy and vision, firstly to plan and manager change, identifying and initiating change, motivating and influencing people, manage conflict and resistance to change. As agents of change we have adopted and implemented tried and tested methodologies in leading and influencing change projects.
To compound this we did a SWOT or SWOC analysis of ourselves, to better understand our community. In motivation we are both concerned with how to get people to meet our needs or to do what we want them to do. To achieve our goal to influence people we have combined both Push and Pull options such as reason i.e. proposing ideas, using reason and fact to argue ideas; engage i.e. finding common ground between both parties, offering a strong vision of a better future.
It should be noted that here that we are not concerned with ‘hard’ conflicts but ‘soft’ conflicts that can occur whenever there is disagreement, diversity or differences between us and the client.
Conclusion:
To effectively implement and manipulate ABCD the challenges above need to be dealt and delivered timely and credibly. It has to reach not just librarians, but a huge array of others, such as policymakers, donors, industry leaders. There is a need for strong advocacy and support at the national level. Educating on the importance of Open Source Models in libraries is vital because of the potential to give them knowledge to maintain a more effective information dissemination service. The issue of openness is very important. The open source concept goes beyond no-cost license. There are parallel movements in keeping open access to knowledge, for example in knowledge about DNA code, which cannot be proprietary. Open source is a reality not option.
Bibliography:
1. Buxton, A and Hopkinson, A, (1994) The CDS/ISIS handbook. Library Association, London, U.K.
2. Haqqaui, A.B. (2005) The Role of ICTs in Global Development: Analyses and Policy Recommendations. UN, NY
3. Maher, Hilary and Hall, Pauline (1998) Agents of change. The Manager’s guide to planning and leading change projects, Oak Tree, Dublin, Ireland.
4. Okpaku, Joseph O (2003) ICTs for African Development: An assessment of progress and challenges ahead. UN, NY.
5. Wergel, G and Waldburger, D (2004) ICT4D-Connecting people for a better world: lessons, innovations and perspectives of information and communication technologies in development. SDC/GKP, Berne, Switzerland.
6. Worcel, S. et.al (2000) Social Psychology. Wadsworth, Belmont, CA
7. http://www.bireme.br
Author: Bhowa tg, Infoprenuer, zimisis bhowatg@gmail.com; http://bhowatg.blogspot.com
Paper presented at the 4th African Conference on Digital Scholarship and Curation, May 16-19 2011, CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa
© Bhowa tg 2011
Abstract:
Thrust- the thrust of this article is to describe the effective use of appropriate Open Source Library Systems to disseminate information in arresting the vagaries of poverty and development in Zimbabwe. The role and challenges faced by libraries and documentation/information centres in implementing Open Source Models are discussed. In reality is Open Source a Reality or Option? Finally, a variety of recommendations are offered and the conclusion is drawn that libraries and information professionals must adopt and implement Open Source Models by manipulating appropriate ICT tools and applications.
Methodology/approach: Literature search, web site information and personal interaction with key persons associated with various Open Source Model projects.
Findings: The generality of Zimbabwean library information services is very knowledgeable about integrated library systems, its different modes either proprietary or open source, ways to source and manipulate these options. Libraries and information centres can make a huge impact on local communities by adopting, implementing and manipulating Open Source Models such as ABCD taking full advantage of ICTs and hopefully make a meaningful contribution in effective dissemination of appropriate information services. There is perceived need for providing relevant information services through libraries/information centres in collaboration with like minded Open Source based individuals and institutions such as NGOs to both urban and rural Zimbabweans who are increasingly demanding the right to developmental based information for their daily decisions. However, awareness of Open Source Models or generally ICT tools and applications is low, both in urban and non-urban Zimbabwe. One positive solution is to increase take-up and run Open Source Model awareness campaigns through manipulation and maximization of available and appropriate ICT tools and applications.
Keywords: Open Source Models; ABCD; FOSS; Open Source; Libraries; Information Professionals; Zimbabwe
Background and Context
Zimbabwe has a low urban and high rural population density, high literacy levels comparable worldwide and consequently, high levels of awareness of developmental information which is one of the most challenging problems faced by the country’s library and information centres in delivering an effective information dissemination service. Rightfully, information is the first vital step in development; we know and appreciate the consequences of ignorance about the importance of information and how it is disseminated can generate fear and prejudice towards those who are in need. Libraries and information centres through information professionals need to care about this and act on it. This article suggests Open Source Model-based measures that might be adopted, based on the literature review of best practices on the manipulation of integrated library systems in other countries developing or developed. Implementing Open Source Models in Zimbabwean libraries and information centres is simple but not a simple task, as we have multiplicity of major problems ranging from technical to outright detest for change. To overcome such challenges, with the use of convergence technologies such as ABCD these barriers maybe history. Innovative strategies in manipulation of Open Source Models in the dissemination of developmental information are needed. It’s a fact that awareness and manipulation of Open Source Models is higher among the urban based libraries. For the unfortunate libraries they need to take full advantage of the power and flexibility of ICTs?
Demystifying Open Source Models
Traditionally all academic treatises begin with a definition of terms and in keeping with tradition this writer will attempt to provide a working definition or understanding of the following related or interchangeable concepts, Open Culture, Open Society, Open Sharing and Open Source Models.
The President and CEO of Malaysia’s state-owned ICT Company MIMOS Berhad, Dr Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeem, made the following interesting observation ‘in terms of open source, we have new opportunities. They come about because there is a new movement of sharing. And the open source system is just one manifestation of this culture. The networks we have created through the internet allow this sharing to happen in a very efficient way.’
Robert Kramer, Vice President (CompTIA), further agreed that open source offers new opportunities. These, he noted, need to be added to the opportunities already available through closed source software. He further argues that the idea of having a rich set of choices in software that adds both the opportunity of open source and those in commercial software is really the way to go.
From an African perspective, Bildad Kagai, CEO of a Kenyan open source company and Coordinator of the Free Software and Open Source Foundation for Africa (FOSSFA), reinforced the above thoughts by stating that Open source and free software is the way to go for us (Africans), but there are many challenges, including policy issues.
Kramer further contends that, Open Source Software (OSS), hybrid and proprietary options currently compete head-to-head in almost every market around the world. It’s a fact that OSS is among the fastest growing and most competitive classes of software in today’s market.
What is Open Source?
According to Wiegel et.al (2004), OSS is a computer program whose source code is made available for use or modification as users or other developers see fit. Historically, proprietary software developers have not made source code available.
Other schools of thought refer Open Source Software as Free Open Source Software (FOSS), which can be freely used, modified and distributed. Further it allows software developers and users to customize, change or add functionalities by joining the global open production processes. Licensing is key to Open Source and does not entail paying license fees. This basically fortifies what Wiegel and others propagated in their discussions at the ICT4D forum in 2004.
Freedom not cost
Except for free licenses, Open Source is not cost free but gives users four essential freedoms:
• The freedom to run the program, for any purpose (freedom 0)
• The freedom to study how the program works, and adapt it to your needs (freedom 1)
• The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help your neighbor (freedom 2)
• The freedom to improve the program, and release your improvements (and modified versions in general) to the public (freedom 3)
Access to the source code is a precondition for freedoms 1 and 3. This is the major obstacle with proprietary software as the source code is often a patent of the individual company.
Closed Source vs. Open Source
FOSS
Proprietary Software
1. Access code, 'Free' download and reuse
• Buy, don't build or code
2. Freedom to modify, customize and sell
• Vendor lock-in
3. Everyone can customize software according to his/her own needs
• Lack customized features for some customers
4. Can be localized in many languages
• Deployed in limited languages
5. Motivation: Extrinsic and intrinsic
• Motivation: Extrinsic, financial gains
6. Generate and share knowledge for common good
• Generate and keep knowledge for competitive advantage
7. Support can be obtained by anyone from project forums, mailing lists, etc. or bought from commercial vendors, distributors, or consultancy firms
• Support provided to license holders and on first-come first serve basis. Third-party support, driver download, software updates is also provided on websites
8. Ease of compliance with other copyleft community-maintained FOSS (universe) and software restricted by legal issues (multiverse)
• Difficulty in compliance with other software due to copyright restrictions
Clearing FOSS Myths
Fact Myth
Over 400,000 FOSS projects (18,000 mature) in all fields of IT It's a Linux vs. Windows thing
Major FOSS solutions are more reliable than proprietary counterparts; professional support available for FOSS FOSS is not reliable or supported
About 90% of Fortune 1000 companies deploy FOSS; Google, IBM, Sun, HP, Oracle... promote FOSS Big companies don't use FOSS
FOSS licenses are based on the copyright law FOSS is hostile to "intellectual property“
HP: $2.5B in 2003; RedHat: $750M in 200 There is no money to be made on FOSS
>50% FOSS developers are paid, others volunteer and contribute for personal motivations The FOSS movement is unfair and unsustainable, because programmers don't get paid for their efforts
Community growth requires significant investment If I start a FOSS project, plenty of developers will start working for me for nothing
FOSS spearheads a new innovation model that all should know about FOSS is a programmer thing, users and decision-makers should not worry about it
The percentage of innovative projects (12%) is roughly the same in FOSS and proprietary software FOSS is always playing catch-up with the commercial world, where all innovation comes from
ABCD
Clever/Simple/Free
ABCD is an acronym for a software suite for the Automation of Libraries and Documentation centres and available in four major languages
Spanish 'Automatisación de Bibliotécas y Centros de Documentación',
French (Automation des Bibliothèques et Centres de Documentacion)
Portugese (Automatizaçãodas Bibliotecas e dos Centros de Documentação).
ABCD is a web based system for the automation of processes, workflows, functions, products and services typical for libraries and documentation and information centers. ABCD belongs to the ISIS family of software for storage and retrieval of textual, structured information, focused on bibliographic information sources and associated services. It is multilingual (supports 4 languages), multiplatform (windows & linux), multicultural, compatible with international standards (ISO 2709), generally flexible and configurable, capable of dealing with the automation of all kinds of libraries and documentation centers.
It consists of the following features;
Best tools built-in i.e. Z39.50 (allows access to remote/online databases)
Friendly & beautiful. Users fall in love with the simple & elegant interface.
Community of support. ABCD has a polite, supportive & accessible user support community & approachable development communities
Safe & Functional. ABCD like all free packages is much more secure from viruses & attacks
Uses fewer resources. Yup, even your low-end PC can run ABCD. ABCD does not need high RAM, high CPU speed, and bigger hard disk space. Everything is neat & small
Not difficulty & not for geek only. ABCD is not difficult to use. Some people think that you need too know programming to use ABCD, its not for the GEEK but for the human being
as a librarian-oriented tool based on LIS principles rather than computer or programming principles
as a tool for developing countries provides LIS workers with a very powerful tool, which takes into account some specific realities, such as: low availability of ICT skills, Bandwidth & Connectivity
The development, maintenance and distribution of ABCD follows the free and open source software (FOSS) modality, under coordination of BIREME with the support of the Consortium of Flemish Universities (VLIR/UOS - and the ISIS community of users and developers, represented in solely in Zimbabwe by zimisis.
The ABCD system integrates applications for online automation of database creation and management, using open protocols for web based interoperability, cataloguing of document collections, import/export of records, acquisitions and two lending modules - basic and advanced with statistics, periodicals control, creation, configuration and management of websites and OPAC with advanced search system.
.
Implementing ABCD in Zimbabwe
The following approaches have been used in implementing and manipulating ABCD, which usually takes two full days to be operational inclusive of training. On enquiry we discuss with the prospective client their needs, giving them the various options ABCD offers. After thorough discussions the following approaches are taken, firstly complete customization and configuration. This option is inclusive of all modules i.e. database administration, cataloguing, loans and acquisitions. The alternative option is the above but implementing only selective modules. Training is at two levels and modular approach is used, firstly operational skills transfer which is equivalent to basic training and the second level is advanced technical skills transfer suited for those more interested in technical aspects of ABCD. The training can be in-house or workshop type centred. It should be noted that most clients are interested in the end product, and not the geek part, in other words we take care of the technical configuration aspect and demonstrate and implement an operational skills transfer.
ABCD has been implemented and is being manipulated countrywide with Zimbabwe Open University being our largest client with the main library and ten regional libraries. Our selective client list is as follows (2010-11);
Government:
National Free Library of Zimbabwe
Forestry Industries Training Centre
Geological Survey
Ministry of Agriculture
Harare Polytechnic
Seke Teachers College
United College of Education
Mutare Polytechnic
Zimbabwe School of Mines
Morgan Zintec College
NGOs:
Zimbabwe Economic Policy Analysis and Research Unit (ZEPARU)
Centre for Conflict Management and Transformation
Law Society of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Women's Resource Centre and Network (ZWRCN)
Oxfam Australia
Schools:
Hellenic International Academy
Hillcrest College
Universities:
Zimbabwe Open University LIS (HQ & 10 regional libraries)
Challenges in the implementation of ABCD
a. The number one challenge is that the open source model is very new concept. Open source model is a completely different way of working, one that requires a lot of voluntary help. In the open source movement there is an ‘obligation to share’, and to ‘share alike’.
b. Difficulties in acquiring enough technical competence in manipulation of the code and share alike at the same level as other developers
c. Another major challenge is migration, which we have experienced when moving from proprietary systems to open source. The greatest challenge is not technical, but human. Most people do not like to change from one system to another; they just resist any change. But experience has shown that this obstacle can be overcome.
d. Adaptation mentality, anything that is FREE is of inferior quality and becomes even more intriguing when it is locally supported. The notion that anything foreign is superior over local is lekker still holds sway.
e. Compatibility issues related to data formats developed by proprietary systems vendors, which sometimes appear to put obstacles in the way of compatibility. This is a temporary situation as they are now ways of overseeing the problem, with the emergence of communities of OS developers. The new open sharing culture ensures that answers are received from a community of thousands of volunteers worldwide.
f. Open is not necessarily FREE. There are costs associated with OSS even if this is given for free. It is assumed that if its free, expertise and labour are also free
g. Open source models are not considered to be viable in Zimbabwe, a problem which is attributed to lack of knowledge and appreciation. An issue which has to do with ownership, licensing and copyright of open source as compared to proprietary systems.
Acknowledging the above, each time we turn on the news or going to the office we are faced with change, sometimes momentous, sometimes minor. We are told change is the new normality and as we find ourselves approaching the turn of the century, the notion that we are living in a changing world is almost a cliché. Nonetheless, it is borne of real experience, and the fact that it is a cliché does not take away the stress and difficult that introducing change can mean (Maher and Hall, 1998).
Our response to the above noted challenges has been adoption of a strategy and vision, firstly to plan and manager change, identifying and initiating change, motivating and influencing people, manage conflict and resistance to change. As agents of change we have adopted and implemented tried and tested methodologies in leading and influencing change projects.
To compound this we did a SWOT or SWOC analysis of ourselves, to better understand our community. In motivation we are both concerned with how to get people to meet our needs or to do what we want them to do. To achieve our goal to influence people we have combined both Push and Pull options such as reason i.e. proposing ideas, using reason and fact to argue ideas; engage i.e. finding common ground between both parties, offering a strong vision of a better future.
It should be noted that here that we are not concerned with ‘hard’ conflicts but ‘soft’ conflicts that can occur whenever there is disagreement, diversity or differences between us and the client.
Conclusion:
To effectively implement and manipulate ABCD the challenges above need to be dealt and delivered timely and credibly. It has to reach not just librarians, but a huge array of others, such as policymakers, donors, industry leaders. There is a need for strong advocacy and support at the national level. Educating on the importance of Open Source Models in libraries is vital because of the potential to give them knowledge to maintain a more effective information dissemination service. The issue of openness is very important. The open source concept goes beyond no-cost license. There are parallel movements in keeping open access to knowledge, for example in knowledge about DNA code, which cannot be proprietary. Open source is a reality not option.
Bibliography:
1. Buxton, A and Hopkinson, A, (1994) The CDS/ISIS handbook. Library Association, London, U.K.
2. Haqqaui, A.B. (2005) The Role of ICTs in Global Development: Analyses and Policy Recommendations. UN, NY
3. Maher, Hilary and Hall, Pauline (1998) Agents of change. The Manager’s guide to planning and leading change projects, Oak Tree, Dublin, Ireland.
4. Okpaku, Joseph O (2003) ICTs for African Development: An assessment of progress and challenges ahead. UN, NY.
5. Wergel, G and Waldburger, D (2004) ICT4D-Connecting people for a better world: lessons, innovations and perspectives of information and communication technologies in development. SDC/GKP, Berne, Switzerland.
6. Worcel, S. et.al (2000) Social Psychology. Wadsworth, Belmont, CA
7. http://www.bireme.br
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