Support Information Systems, a tool which enhance learning and monitoring

Abstract

A Support Information System (SIS) has been created in order to monitor water and sanitation (WatSan) programs and improve their efficiency. SIS is based on a database system where relevant data of the program can be easily stored and processed through user-friendly interfaces. Definition of the information to be introduced in the database shall be done according to the needs of the profesionals working directly on the project and to the data needed to observe the evolution of the program indicators, as those defining the Logical Framework. As long as the information is georeferenced, information can be automatically displayed on a Geographical Information System (GIS), and therefore its spatial evolution can be easily analyzed. Graphical representation facilitates the analysis and allows for a better response on real time while the programme is being implemented. The use of SIS enables for hindsight research, helping to improve efficiency and, therefore program extension/replication.