There is currently much excitement about the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to address the low sustainability of rural water services in sub Saharan Africa and South Asia.
This notwithstanding, there is not yet a proof of concept that such innovations are successful (i.e. demonstrating sustained use at scale that helps address scheme sustainability). The objective of this research project is to go beyond the current emphasis on finding technical solutions: to better understand and address political, economic and cultural factors affecting ICT innovations geared to improve water service sustainability monitoring.
This research, conducted by WaterAid, Itad and IRC, aims to understand the factors that facilitate and inhibit the success of ICT-based reporting to improve rural water supply sustainability. They compare eight ICT initiatives to identify the most crucial factors that lead to success or failure.
