Innovations in Information Technologies

Paper commissioned by the Microcredit Summit Campaign in 2006.

This document describes the work of Developpement International Desjardins (DID) in Mali, where it introduced mobile banking technologies using hand held computers.

The paper:

• Identifies the basic elements used to develop and introduce the system into an expanding microfinance institution (MFI) striving to reach members in remote areas;
• Mentions the impact and benefits and examines the advantages that technological innovation can offer an organization.

The paper examines:

• The reasons for introducing technology, such as automation of operations, greater outreach, etc;
• The goals of introducing technology, such as increasing access to products and services, increasing operational effectiveness, etc.;
• The experience in Mali, looking at:
  • The structure and functioning of credit cooperatives;
  • The target clientele of the mobile technology;
  • Business strategy and choice of technology;
  • A typical 'Application Mobile d'Information sur les Operations' (AMIO) implementation model and implementation process;
  • The training of personnel;
  • Cost and benefits;
  • Impact in terms of quality of service, productivity, outreach, etc.

The paper states that the DID experience highlights the importance of:

• A stable organizational climate;
• Knowledgeable local staff;
• Support and maintenance efforts.

The paper concludes that:

• Despite the ease of implementation and takeover of control by local teams, there is a need for constant monitoring of mobile technologies;
• Mobile technologies will be able to integrate poor populations into the local economy taking into account their needs and aspirations.