J. A. Boon
Information workers as yet have not fully understood the relationship thatexists between information and development. It is shown that information should be viewed as one of the essential know-how resources. The value and necessity of information for development is argued. An attempt is made to classify the various areas where information is needed for development, as well as the information systems and infrastructures available or required to provide for the different needs. There are a number of reasons why information has not yet played a significant role in development. One reason is that planners, developers and governments do not yet acknowledge the role of information as a basic resource. Another is that the quality of existing information services is such that they cannot yet make an effective contribution to information provision for development. In conclusion, some guidelines are given for optimal use of information as a resource for development.