Evaluation of Information Products and Services of the Documentation and Information Centre Khartoum, Sudan
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Date
1992-06
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Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The Documentation and Information Centre (DIC) was set up
in 1978 as part of the National Centre for Research in
Khartoum , Sudan, to support research, development planning,
decision making and projects monitoring and evaluation. For
the efficient and effective discharge of its functions and
responsibilities. DIC has developed a library and information
centre and has been providing a variety of information
products and services. This study aims to evaluate the
products and services of DIC, mainly the databases,
abstracting services, and the inventories and resource sharing
activities. The study attempts to identify through systems
analysis, surveys and discussions, factors affecting the
utilization of DIC products and services. Following a brief
general description of the geographical , political and
economic features, natural resources, research and
development, information infrastructure and its inadequacies
are detailed. User evaluation shows that DIC products and
services are generally of a high quality in contents but needs
improvement of the printing and get up. The information
products are found useful to build up information sources and
in identifying of grey literature. Users' preferences in terms
of services was as follows: literature search (22.29%),
Article photocopy (18.60 %), bibliographies (15.12%), SDI
(10.49%), fiche copy and paper (9.30%). Useful suggestions
have been received from users and information scientists which
would help improve the services.
various factors affecting the smooth operation of DIC are
discussed and suggestions are given for developing an integrated
management information system to support decision
making, research and development. Further recommends that DIC
should assume responsibilities as the central body for
coordinating information services and activities in Sudan.
Description
Keywords
Information Science