Training in Information Systems Design for Urban and Regional Planners in Developing Countries. A Concept Paper Prepared for the UNCRD.

Information systems design is at a crossroads of changes in technology (microcomputing, software engineering, and telecommunications) and the administration of social systems, of which urban and regional planning are a part. Training in information systems design will be beneficial to four distinct groups of people: clerical and technical staff; new information professionals; middle- and senior-level planners; and policy makers. The training process must take an integrated approach to systems design, rather than attempting to formulate technical solutions to technical problems. Planning authorities need to develop local information plans which would include mapping the current information infrastructure and constructing a development program. Training of clerical/technical and young professionals can be best accomplished within the country. Senior-level training should occur out of the country, through a combination of short courses, conferences, and seminars, or by one year of Masters of Science level courses. Policy planners will benefit from sensitizing, rather than training; it is probably best achieved through short seminars. Experiences in other areas of administration where the same issues are being confronted should be utilized, and the formation of documentation centers in regional centers of excellence would help to offset the slender range of teaching materials available. There remains a dilemma, however: those who are best equipped to see the need for an information plan and the value of training in systems design may not be in a position to influence policy decisions. Further, the process of designing an information system is likely to uncover institutional antagonisms. (56 references) (SD)