Adoption of Free Open Source Geographic Information System Solution for Health Sector in Zanzibar Tanzania

Authors

  • BAKAR Abubakar Faculty of Computer Science & Information Technology, University Putra Malaysia, Selangor
  • KIMARO Honest University of Dar Es Salaam
  • SULTAN Abu Bakar Faculty of Computer Science & Information Technology, University Putra Malaysia, Selangor
  • HAMIAR Sleiman Zanzibar University, Zanzibar

Keywords:

Free Open source software, geographical information system, health information system, district health information software, participatory research.

Abstract

The study aims at developing in-depth understanding on how Open Source Geographic Information System technology is used to provide solutions for data visualization in the health sector of Zanzibar, Tanzania. The study focuses on implementing the health visualization solutions for the purpose of bridging the gap during the transition period from proprietary software to the Free Open-Source Software using Key Indicator Data System. The developed tool facilitates data integration between the two District Health Information Software versions and hence served as a gateway solution during the transition process. Implementation challenges that include outdated spatial data and the reluctance of the key users in coping with the new Geographical Information System technologies were also identified. Participatory action research and interviews were used in understanding the requirements for the new tool to facilitate the smooth system development for better health service delivery.

Published

2014-02-18

How to Cite

Abubakar, B., Honest, K., Abu Bakar, S., & Sleiman, H. (2014). Adoption of Free Open Source Geographic Information System Solution for Health Sector in Zanzibar Tanzania. Journal of Health Informatics in Developing Countries, 8(1). Retrieved from https://www.jhidc.org/index.php/jhidc/article/view/110

Issue

Section

Research Articles