Thesis (MScAgric (Agricultural Economics))—University of Stellenbosch, 2005. / The study broadly assesses the usefulness of available digital spatial land resource data as a source for agritourism and ecotourism information by comparing the inventory of available spatial data sets for South Africa and the SADC region, with the needs for spatial data as derived from a literature study of travel motivations and demand determinants. Spatial land resource data have been collected, processed and stored for agricultural planning purposes, like land suitability assessment, agricultural production and infrastructural planning. Given a) the growth in agritourism and ecotourism, b) the more detailed information required by tourists to aid them during decision making processes like destination selection and c) the progress in information technology rendering access of information via the internet easier; the question arose whether the available land resource digital data can be processed to provide relevant tourism information on internet websites. Four tasks had to be done, namely: a) identifying tourists’ needs by means of a literature study on travel motivations and demand determinants; b) identifying the land resource data sets that could be processed into information to meet these identified needs; c) determining the accessibility of spatial information on internet tourism websites to potential agritourists and ecotourists, and d) exploring opportunities for adding value by looking at what information existing websites are offering in comparison with what can be obtained from repackaging the land resource data. Common ground was found between the spatial tourist information needs and the available spatial land resource data. This, coupled with the ability of combining meteorological and other humanmade environmental data in GIS modelling, suggests that repackaging land resource data seems to have the potential to offer useful tourism information in correspondence with confirmed tourist information needs.

by Chan Yuen Yuen Yolanda, Kwong Hok Yuen Terecina. / Thesis (M.B.A.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1999. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 117). / ABSTRACT --- p.ii / TABLE OF CONTENTS --- p.iii / LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS --- p.vi / LIST OF TABLES --- p.vii / LIST OF APPENDICES --- p.ix / ACKNOWLEDGMENTS --- p.xi / CHAPTER / Chapter I. --- INTRODUCTION --- p.1 / Chapter II --- . LITERATURE REVIEW --- p.3 / Chapter A. --- Findings applied to Online Newspaper Browsing Behavior --- p.4 / Chapter B. --- Banner Ads --- p.5 / Chapter C. --- Web User Profile --- p.6 / Chapter D. --- The Perspectives on Consumer behaviors --- p.7 / Chapter III. --- OBJECTIVES --- p.9 / Chapter IV. --- RESEARCH METHODOLOGY --- p.10 / Chapter A. --- Exploratory approach method --- p.10 / Chapter 1. --- The Pilot Study --- p.11 / Chapter 2. --- Online Survey --- p.11 / Chapter B. --- Descriptive Approach Method --- p.13 / Chapter C. --- Data collection method of online survey --- p.14 / Chapter 1. --- Sampling Plan --- p.14 / Chapter 2. --- Sampling Frame --- p.14 / Chapter 3. --- Sample Size --- p.14 / Chapter 4. --- Valid Sample --- p.15 / Chapter D. --- Identity Composition --- p.16 / Chapter E. --- Data analysis and interpretation --- p.16 / Chapter V. --- FINDINGS --- p.18 / Chapter A. --- Demographic --- p.20 / Chapter 1. --- Summary of demographic profile of respondents --- p.20 / Chapter 2. --- Comparison table --- p.23 / Chapter B. --- Internet Usage --- p.25 / Chapter 1. --- Summary of various aspects of internet usage --- p.25 / Chapter 2. --- Information on purposes of using Internet statistics --- p.27 / Chapter C. --- Online news browsing behaviors --- p.29 / Chapter 1. --- Summary of online news browsing behavior --- p.29 / Chapter 2. --- Information on competition --- p.31 / Chapter D. --- Banner Advertisements browsing behavior --- p.32 / Chapter E. --- Web Content Evaluation --- p.34 / Chapter F. --- Behavior analysis of online news browsing --- p.38 / Chapter 1. --- Skillfulness --- p.38 / Chapter 2. --- Internet information-seeking preferencess --- p.44 / Chapter 3. --- Demgraphic anaysis of banner ads browsing --- p.53 / Chapter VI. --- IMPLICATIONS --- p.55 / Chapter A. --- comparisons between apple daily's perception and online survey --- p.55 / Chapter 1. --- Customers --- p.55 / Chapter 2. --- Information types that readers are interested in --- p.56 / Chapter 3. --- Competitors --- p.56 / Chapter b. --- application of a behavior model --- p.57 / Chapter 1. --- Awareness --- p.57 / Chapter 2. --- Interest --- p.57 / Chapter 3. --- Evaluation --- p.57 / Chapter 3. --- Action --- p.58 / Chapter c. --- target segmentation --- p.59 / Chapter D. --- Web design strategies --- p.60 / Chapter 1. --- "Improve downloading time, interactivity and technological superiority" --- p.60 / Chapter 2. --- Links to local libraries and search engines --- p.60 / Chapter E. --- Information provision strategies --- p.61 / Chapter F. --- Banner Advertisements provision strategies --- p.61 / Chapter G. --- promotional strategies --- p.62 / Chapter H. --- online marketing research --- p.62 / Chapter I. --- competitive moves --- p.63 / Chapter J. --- future prospects --- p.63 / Chapter VII --- LIMITATIONS / SCOPE OF THE STUDY --- p.65 / Chapter VIII --- CONCLUSION --- p.66 / APPENDIX --- p.68 / BIBLIOGRAPHY --- p.116

Printed information access, preferences and use by small-scale farmers in KwaZulu-Natal, who are experimenting with or converting to organic farming, were investigated to establish the need for information on organic production, certification, and marketing. Forty-six resource-poor farmers from four groups at Umbumbulu, Tugela Ferry, KwaMashu and Muden participated in semi-structured group interviews. Guiding questions, information tabulation, ranking and sorting, and voting were used to gather data. Five printed agricultural information materials were evaluated. The findings indicated that the participants trusted and relied on intermediaries for access to innovative, research-based information, and preferred interpersonal communication over other information channels. Printed materials were valued for their permanence, while participants preferred materials in isiZulu as 75% of participants were able to read and write isiZulu or were able to ask family members to read materials in isiZulu. At least one functionally literate farmer was a member of each of the participating farmer groups. Appropriate printed information on organic production, certification and marketing had not reached the participants. Characteristics of printed information materials preferred by participating farmers included: large typeface, photographs, drawings, step-by-step instructions, stories about people and events, context-specific content, the use of plain language in English or preferably isiZulu. / Thesis (M.Agric.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2004.

The purpose underpinning the study was to establish the prospect of developing a supplementary Internet-based information exchange system for the Natal Midlands Rural Development Network (MIDNET) and to propose a model of operation for the anticipated system. The study intended to propose, based on findings, steps and strategies that need to be taken on how best to integrate an Internet based information exchange system into the requirements and capacity of MIDNET members. To accomplish the objectives of the study, both primary and secondary sources of data were used. Literature on cooperation and networking and application of the Internet for information exchange networking were reviewed, analyzed and conceptualized to establish feasibility dimensions for an Internet-based information exchange system in a network environment and to plan a model of operation for the system. Original research was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire to MIDNET members during July through November 2001. Out ofthe questionnaires distributed to all 32 members, 18 (56.8%) were returned and used. Data collected was related to current information exchange activities; general information needs; availability of information resources in terms of ICTs infrastructure, organization and human resources and funding; and opinions on establishing an Internet based information exchange system. Supplementary information was also collected through observation of some aspects of the information exchange and dissemination activities of MIDNET members. Document analysis was done mainly to establish the contents ofthe information products of MIDNET members, MIDNET and interest groups of MIDNET. Based on general information needs established in the present study, MIDNET members were found to have similar objectives, activities and disciplines of work geared toward similar goals within rural development, the thematic boundary of the network. MIDNET was found to draw in, within its membership, geographical and thematic boundary, like-minded organizations and individuals that have similar information seeking behavior. Members, when motivated by five reasons, were found to exchange information using nine kinds ofcommunication media and mechanisms and 16 categories ofinformation products and activities which reflected 27 information content categories. The information products of members, MIDNET and interest groups of MIDNET were largely in the category of grey literature. Most members were found to have a good state oflCTs infrastructure in terms of owning computers, computer networks, Internet connectivity and development of Internet-based information exchange and dissemination systems. Most members do not have information support services backed by conventional information units and professionals. Ad hoc arrangements of responsibility for information work were used in most instances. Findings concerning funding infonnation exchange activities were inadequate to examine the trend in funding. Findings concerning problems and factors that impeded current information exchange activities and solutions suggested by members reflected the need to improve current communication and information delivery interfaces and to establish an Internet-based information system as a supplementary interface. Members indicated an overwhelming desire to participate in and contribute to the anticipated system, although there was a reluctance in terms of system inputs other than information. Analysis of the study findings in terms of fundamental feasibility dimensions showed that the Internet, if appropriately and effectively used, has the prospect to facilitate communication and information exchange in MIDNET by way of replicating current interfaces. The study proposes a model plan for the establishment of an Internet-based information exchange system that would suit the requirements and capacity of members. The plan is proposed based on findings of the present study and valid reflections from a review of the literature in terms of prerequisites for networking, basic requirements and general principles. Other aspects considered were models of cooperation on the Internet and methodological approaches for the development and impact assessment ofan Internet-based information exchange system in the development sector. / Thesis (M.I.S.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2002.

Doctors and nurses in most developing countries lack access to adequate health information, that is, the lifeblood for the delivery of quality health care services. This problem is further compounded by the fact that correct techniques and equipment are not applied to provide access to reliable health information. Based on previous literature, it is assumed that information should be managed in the same way capital, labour and human resources are managed so that healthcare providers and medical professionals should be able to have relevant information to assist then in their daily activities, to help them to learn, to diagnose and to save lives. Relevance and reliability are paramount in meeting health information needs. A number of studies have shown that the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the management of health information is a prerequisite to wider accessibility and availability of relevant health information. Health information management is the continuum of processes in managing health-related information. It is composed of the use of technologies (computers, hardware, software and telecommunication), personnel (trained information specialists), and the allocation of financial resources to achieve the major goals of the organisation such as a hospital. The aim is to collect, process, store, retrieve and disseminate adequate health information to the right person, in the right form, at the right time. This study investigated the application of ICTs in the management of health information by medical professionals in six selected government hospitals in Yaounde, Cameroon. The basis of the study was that through the effective application of ICTs in the management of health information, relevant and timely information would be made available to medical professionals. It was the researcher's view that unless we understand the importance of information in the development of the health system, and apply the use of ICTs in its management, the delivery of health care services will constantly remain poor. Data was collected from six government hospitals in Yaounde through a self-administered questionnaire given to nurses and medical doctors. The data collected from 141 medical professionals [doctors and nurses] were presented, using descriptive statistics in the form of frequency distribution and percentage. The findings of the study revealed that medical professionals are dissatisfied with the major method of information exchange activities, that is, face-to-face interaction with colleagues. In addition, the study found that health information is captured, processed and stored manually. This is very detrimental to medical professionals, because relevant information is not always available when needed. The study found that the barriers to adequate information exchange activities were lack of information support services, irregular distribution of information and poor co-operation and collaboration among medical professionals. The study also revealed the non-availability of ICTs and Internet resources and lack of basic computer skills. Consequently, there is low utilisation of ICTs by medical professionals and limited information needs are being satisfied. Medical professionals unanimously favoured the application of Internet services or an electronic health information resource to supplement the current method of managing and accessing health information. Lack of training on the use of computers and Internet resources were the main factors that hinder the use of ICTs by medical professionals. The study concluded by calling on directors of hospitals, medical professionals and the Ministry of Health Officials to provide ICTs and Internet resources to medical professionals and provide them with basic computing skills and training. It further called for the recognition of information as an important resource for national development and called for formulation of a national information policy. With an information policy, information needs would be clearly defined and the provision of information services throughout the country would be regulated. In addition, medical professionals must create a free-flow of information and constant communication outlet to exchange and disseminate local health information. The high demand for basic training on the use of ICTs could be provided through in-service training or refresher courses. / Thesis (M.I.S.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2003.

The aim of this study was to better understand how academics manage their personal information and therefore to have a basis for planning for appropriate support by librarians. There did not appear to be any current relevant research but from a review of previous studies, in which the predominant management strategy included a card personal index, a model was drawn up and validated by a number of academics would be using electronic personal indexes to manage their personal collections. The research methods selected for this study were in-depth interviews and a questionnaire survey. The main findings were that academics do not use a personal index (card or electronic) to manage their personal collections and they also use a language different from that of librarians to describe their activities of personal information management. Academics manage their information by organising their personal collection according to their working subject framework. to expand their collections they work outwards from items of known quality or follow the advice of colleagues to locate such items. To become aware of the new material in the library (or elsewhere), academics prefer to browse new journals and books, rather than use a subject index. Databases are used for confirmation of reference details and citation indexes are used to work outwards from documents of known quality. The output of references is by the use of word processing software with a few academics using bibliographic software just for this function. The conclusion of the study were that academics manage their personal information in a dissimilar way to that expected by librarians. Academics are managing ideas not documents and their methods of personal information management reflect the need to manage these ideas and the associated connective thought process. Librarians can better assist academics by designing library services that facilitate academics' ideas management. Suggestions for improved support include the development of services that enable browsing, the linking of ideas between research publications in different disciplines and the provision of a service to confirm reference details.

This study was conducted on the premise that if quality business information is provided to business enterprises, socio-economic transformation could be achieved. The study emanated from the documented problem where business enterprises in northern Uganda were found to depend on "word of mouth" rather than any meaningful formal mechanism for accessing information efficiently. The aim of the study was, therefore, to design an information system for northern Uganda business enterprises. The study makes use of document analysis, questionnaires and interviews. The Small and Medium scale Enterprises (SMEs), information providers and business policy-makers in northern Uganda constituted the population of the study. The data which was collected was edited and analysed to produce graphs, charts and percentages. The main findings indicate that business activities in northern Uganda are diverse - covering almost the entire sector of the economy. The SMEs need information on finance/capital/loans, local markets, business management skills, appropriate technologies, business competitors and security. They are lagging behind in using Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). There is a lack of familiarity with changing technology - especially the Internet. Although the SMEs are making a fundamental contribution to Uganda's economy, they face serious challenges, such as insecurity, inadequate electricity, lack of trained information professionals and appropriate technology to access electronic information. The findings further indicate that respondents want business information to be selective to address their needs. The study concludes that the SMEs need an efficient, effective mechanism to provide the required business information. Hence, it is recommended that a business information system (BIS) design be implemented to address their needs. The BIS should provide business information in terms of legal, technical and economic information as well as contact information and management skills. Information should be processed by means of radio broadcasts, the telephone, short text messages, posters, online and CD-ROM formats - as required by the SMEs managers. To facilitate access, BIS should have telephone services; Internet-based services; online small business workshops; business start up assistant; and Talk to BIS services. BIS should have a flexible interface. / INFORMATION SCIENCE / DLITT ET PHIL (INF SCIENCE)

This is the first study undertaken into the way in which voluntary workers, untrained in information skills and working in community information services, collect, organise and use the information they provide to assist clients needing it for their day-to-day survival. The study is placed in perspective through a survey of the literature relating to community information services. This is supplemented by a study of documents relating to the Pretoria Citizens' Advice Bureau. Data was collected by means of participant observation at the Pretoria Citizens' Advice Bureau and interviews with voluntary workers in the Bureau. Analysis of the data was carried out according to the grounded theory approach. It was found that untrained volunteers creating information storage and retrieval tools for use by their fellow volunteers, work without a knowledge of information storage and retrieval theory. They tend to make ad hoc decisions and create tools that are not as user-friendly as they could be with some background in the theory of information science. On the other hand, volunteers searching for information make the same kind of demands of the information storage and retrieval system they use as do professional and scientific information users, in that they want direct access to as much relevant information as possible in one place. They want the information repackaged in a manner to suit their purpose. When under pressure, they are reluctant to consult multiple information storage and retrieval tools not within easy reach. The study culminates in a number of recommendations for the improvement of the service of the Pretoria Citizens' Advice Bureau in particular. Recommendations are also put forward for a centralised computerised database providing processed information to community information services in South Africa. Some suggestions are made concerning education and training of volunteers and professional information workers with a view to providing a better understanding of community information services. / Information Science / D. Lit. et Phil.

Access and use of information facilitate the improvement of agriculture in rural areas. It is therefore important to ensure that adequate and appropriate information flows to the rural areas, and that farmers are able to utilise it. This study investigated the access and use of poultry management information in three rural districts of Tanzania, namely Iringa Rural, Morogoro Rural and Mvomero. The survey method, supplemented by methodological triangulation, was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 360 poultry farmers in the selected rural communities. Sixteen focus group discussions were conducted, in which 160 farmers participated. Twenty-two information providers were interviewed. The SPSS® software was used to analyse quantitative data, while qualitative data was analysed using content analysis. The findings indicated that poultry farmers needed information on poultry disease control, poultry protection, shelter for poultry and poultry production. There was very low identification and prioritisation of farmers’ information needs by the information providers. Farmers accessed information that had a direct impact and was deemed relevant to their farming activities. It was revealed that farmers accessed information mainly from interpersonal sources. Likewise, farmers preferred interpersonal and informal sources to formal sources of information. The extension officers were considered to be the most effective information source, followed by family, friends, and neighbours. Various factors, such as lack of awareness, unavailability of extension officers and poor infrastructure, influenced access and use of poultry management information. It was concluded that most of the information providers were not aware of the farmers’ information needs, and as a result they were not in a position to disseminate relevant information. In addition, farmers were used to an oral culture, which means that they would probably continue to depend on interpersonal sources of information, regardless of the availability of formal channels and modern sources. The study recommended several measures, including the use of multiple sources of information and delivery of information in a variety of formats, in order to accommodate various categories of farmers. The study also suggested some areas for further research. Furthermore, a model for effective dissemination of poultry management information in rural areas was proposed. / Information Science / D. Litt. et Phil. (Information Science)

A case study was conducted to document the changes in the attitudes of academic administrators at Langston University with regards to the use of various types of information sources for strategic planning. Environmental scanning of external factors was accomplished for six months by the use of a selective dissemination of information (SDI) service. Pre- and post-assessments of the perceived reliance on, satisfaction with and adequacy of personal and library-type information sources were conducted. Findings indicated the continued reliance on personal sources. No statistically significant changes were found in perceived adequacy levels in the use of library-type materials. The overall satisfaction level for the use of library-type information sources and retrieval methods showed a significant increase. Further study is recommended that will utilize additional information technology and other academic institutions.