The impact of information technology in the industrialized world is dramatic and the trend is continuing at an exponential rate with global implications. In contrast, the impact of information technology in developing countries is marginal, with only a few countries daring to travel on the information superhighway. One fundamental reason for the lag in the utilization of information technology in developing countries is the absence of basic data. This article explores the possible causes of this lack of basic data by examining the normative factors, cultural and exotic, embedded in the current practices of collecting, storing, and accessing data in Ghana, a developing country. We also discuss the importance of goodness of data (i.e., accuracy, reliability, and validity of data) and the practices that compromise them. We then suggest ways by which information technology can be used to (1) address the goodness of data, (2) solve the problems associated with the current practices of recording, storing, and accessing data, and (3) enhance decision making in policy formulation and strategic planning.
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