Cross-cultural Communication Essay Example for Free

Cross-cultural Communication Essay In order to accomplish the task I decided to interview my friend from Italy who arrived to the USA after having won a language competition to live and study here and whom I recently visited in Italy. So, below you may see some differences and similarities of American and Italian culture. First of all he decided to rent a car since it was more convenient than a train or other transportation vehicle. He noted that there are almost no pedestrians in the streets as everybody drives a car. Also, he stated that American people take care of their life as no other culture in the world because they have a list of emergency calls in every household and therefore are rightfully scared to death of Italian drivers. The system of driving in Italy is almost beyond American understanding. The basic difference is that Americans like lanes and pretty much expect everybody to stay in one. Italy does not work like this at all. Instead they use a surprisingly tolerant system of swerving, tail gating, and other go-as-you-please driving etiquette that Americans would be driven to homicidal road rage by if it happened in the hometown. Traveling through Italy American person will never see anyone irritated or aggressive while driving. Italians just casually drive like maniacs and know that everyone else is too. Along the way, they adore chatting and laughing with each other. As a huge generalization Italians are very attractive people. It felt like people are living in an Armani commercial. But as he says they smoke everywhere, all the time. As expected, he liked American food everywhere: in restaurants, in coffee shops, etc. although he was more accustomed to have a dessert and a thimble of coffee. It was quite a surprise for him to reveal that dinners last an hour or an hour and a half at most while in Italy they go on for hours. Time in general moves differently in the USA, as he says. In the USA days start earlier than according to the Italian standards. In Italy the whole country shuts down from one oclock to three or four oclock every afternoon. There is also a great difference in architecture of these two cultures. Italy is full of narrow streets, plazas and buildings. He says if you want to live in an apartment that is several hundred years old and is probably built on top of even older building you can do it. In the USA it is hard to find something older than about 200 years old. In my essay I would like to refer to the idea of the context of situation (Kramsch 25) that includes three major parts: o The field of discourse o The tenor of discourse o The mode of discourse The field of discourse covers the situation of visiting another country and penetrating into its culture. The tenor implies the participants, while the mode includes the role of the language in this situation. Therefore, it would be appropriate to note that Italian tradition of driving may serve as a good example of the context of situation. First of all, it involves such important factors as high level of emotionality, hot weather, narrow streets, and their somewhat confusing location. As the tenor of discourse investigates the members of the situation, it is necessary to mention here the importance of the origin of the participants. As we may see from the interview and from my own experience Italians and Americans drive in completely different way and both of them believe that their driving tradition is the best and most convenient. In conclusion, I may add that cultural diversity implies different traditions that require understanding, open-mindness, and tolerance. References Kramsch, Claire. (2003). Language and Culture (4th edition). New York: Oxford University Press.

Brain Cancer Innovation: Attacking the Core :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the article Brain Cancer Innovation: Attacking the Core, Anne Denogeantries to clarify how deadly glioma (malignant tumor of the neurological cells) actually is, and how a balloon filled with radiation can extend a patients life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Anne goes on to explain that this treatment is not a cure but on average it doesgive the patient additional months if he or she did not take the surgery. This procedure is done to treat some of the most severe cases of glioma, which was recorded to end up in an average of nine thousand four hundred Americans every year. She also says that this method of using a balloon has been the best when it comes to not damaging any of the patient’s brain tissue. Doctors have been searching for something like this for many years.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The patients that are diagnosed with this illness are usually between the ageof thirty to fifty years old. When these people come in for surgery to cut out the cancer, they usually come out of the room with no brain with the cancer completely gone. The problem with this style of surgery is the cancer comes back after only a short period of time. This is where the radiation balloon (which is used at the University of Arizona and many other sites in America) comes into play. This balloon was created in such a way that it is able to secrete about two centimeters of radiation fluid every time it detects the tumor is getting to large. This is a cheaper more sufficient treatment for glioma patients to choose rather than many surgeries.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The balloon is attached to the catheter during the removal of the tumor. Once it is in the correct position it is filled up with saline. So far, there has been one person that

Campaign Speech Essay

To our beloved beautiful, sexy and ever dynamic campus administrator Dr. Ma. Evengeline P. Perez, to the different chairs of different departments, to the faculty and staff of this institution, to my co-aspirants and to the best students of the whole world, a pleasant afternoon to each in everyone. We are convened here this afternoon for another remarkable and momentous activity in our lives as students, for this afternoon’s activity is considered as one of our greatest decision-making in our lives as students. A wise decision in choosing a leader who will serve as your voice and will hear and answer your queries towards your rights as one of the important stakeholders of this institution. My fellow Cenphilians, the man standing in front of you right now is an aspirant to become a leader, who had bore in mind that being a leader is not an opportunity to rule over the others nor to enslave other people. For me, becoming a leader is a great challenge and responsibility to continue the good administration done by the previous people in authority on the Supreme Student Government or otherwise known as the SSG. I being an aspirant leader of the said organization, would like to continue hearing your voices as what the previous administration did, in order that you can express and exercise your freedom of speech. And I as an aspirant, will serve as your stairway that your voices will be recognized as a student until everything will be okay. And as been said by a not so intelligent creature in the cartoon Spongebob Square Pants, â€Å"Everything will be okay at the end; if it is not okay, yet it is not the end† that is according to Patrick the Starfish. Yes this is really true my fellow cenphilians, and actually one of the reasons why I ran on this organization is that I want to encourage and influence everyone to pursue your dreams. If you haven’t ask me, I am one of the indigent students of this institution but still I am strong enough to overcome the challenges in life being a student. The courage I have in myself, forces me to ran as a leader, thinking that if God’s well, I can influence others in a positive way. And if ever I may not be lucky enough today, still I can assure you, you can still come on me for some motivations and advices, and I will never hesitate myse lf to help and comfort you in terms of your problems. Cause I ran thinking that I am not just be a leader but also will set myself as your â€Å"Manong† who is willing to guide and help you in terms of any unavoidable  difficulties in school or even outside the school premises (financially not involve). I can also be your friend for I am willing to render an extra ordinary services for the goodness of everybody that will enhance our personality for the betterment of the entire community. Lastly, I ran as a president on the SSG execom with a purpose of having a positive changes in our institution throughout my leadership to maintain our name on top, CPSU CAUAYAN UNIVERSITY CAMPUS, and I want that changes to be solicited from you. For I believe, as what a wise man says that, a good leader is always a good follower and yes Indeed. And if ever I became a leader, I want a fair treatment to every students, and being a president in God’s well is not my only chance but everybody’s chance to express your thoughts and ideas for the betterment of the campus, because hopefully, I Arjay T. Bando a 3rd year BEED student, is an open-minded, trustworthy and approachable person is ready to serve you my fellow Cenphilians with all my heart and up to the best that I can. Of course, all of these things would not be materialized without your support my fellow Cenphilians. Let us work in hand and hand, all together for the success of our plans. So I am asking for your full support to please vote me, don’t forget my name Arjay Bando aspiring to be the next President of the Supreme student Government for the school year 2015-2016,and together with my senators â€Å"maga isa kita padulong sa kauswagan sng aton Institution†. Read more:  Campaign Speech Examples

Advertisements Are Not Without Its Demerits - 986 Words

In an age of publicity, advertisements can be found everywhere. They are a form of media that advertisers use to promote their products and services to the public. They need to be bright, colorful, and eye-catching while keeping their consumers away from thinking smartly. In this way, advertisers can expect the greatest results out of it. However, advertisements are not without its demerits. Art director David Krulik made an unofficial controversial Toyota Prius print back in 2008. It shows a man in a suit dragging away a body wrapped in white sheets into a lake. Both are currently in a swamp with no sight of society, and beside them is the Toyota Prius with its engine and headlights turned on. The Toyota logo can be located at the bottom left of the print, and below it, a â€Å"Well, at least he drives a Prius† tagline is written. Products that are seen in these kinds of advertisements have always been treated as the â€Å"holy grail† for society. It can keep them entertained, keep them company, make their lives better, and show that it is fine to commit crimes. In particular with this print, showing a dichotomy between on what is happening in the image and tagline shows that society can overlook the crimes that a person commits as long as he or she owns a Toyota Prius. While it does not actually mean that these criminals can be easily forgiven, it is telling its consumers that their imperfections can be made right by buying the advertised products. In other words, everyone’s livesShow MoreRelatedRecruitment1562 Words   |  7 Pagesstrategies to attract or identify candidates to fill job vacancies. It may involve internal and/or external advertising, using appropriate media, such as local or national newspapers, specialist recruitment media, professional publications, window advertisements, job centres, or in a variety of ways via the internet. 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African-American Firsts in Film and Theatre

Male Sexuality Female Sexuality - 1024 Words

Female Sexuality Female sexuality intertwines with Possessing the Secret of Joy by illustrating its power and those who fear it. History In the early nineteenth century, heightened female sexuality was considered a disorder (Studd, 2006). Doctors and psychiatrist sought ways to prevent â€Å"masturbation and decrease libido†. Issac Baker Brown- a gynecological surgeon removed the clitoris of a women who sought to use the Divorce Act of 1857 and leave her husbands as well as young women who read books and failed to follow their mothers’ rules. Women received operations to remove their clitoris preventing sexual stimulation as a way of controlling their sexual desires. Applying of leeches to the vulva and the anus also destroyed the outer portions of the vagina. In the medieval times, men were fearful of the female sexuality and the madness they believed came along with heightened states of arousal (Studd, 2006). Current Dr. Kimberly Russell says culture influences control women by saying women are less interested in sex than men, and that women prefer monogamy. Women did not say that, but women believe it (Cavanaugh, 2013). Creating an environment where women control their urges to be sexual with more than one person, is called â€Å"slut shaming.† This is an example of societal control over the libido of women. As evidence of this theory, Russell used other species who mate with several different mates to ensure procreation. More partners greater the chances for pregnancy. WomenShow MoreRelatedFemale Sexuality : Male Sexuality846 Words   |  4 PagesFemale Sexuality Female sexuality has been a controversial subject that plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. There is a constant double standard women face. In terms of sexuality both males and females are more similar than society deems them. 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Mis in Microfinance Free Essays

string(145) " being used either in conjunction with a manual system or with an MIS application that does not fulfill the information requirements of the MFI\." MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR MICROFINANCE| ABSTRACT ICT can be a strategic tool in making Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) more efficient and effective. MFIs can reach more people in a more economic way by implementing the right Management Information System (MIS). While a few MFIs are making good use of technology, the majority are facing difficulties in getting the right solution. We will write a custom essay sample on Mis in Microfinance or any similar topic only for you Order Now Reasons for this include: * Insufficient organizational and human capacity * Unavailability of suitable MIS applications for microfinance * Diversity in business processes and frequent changes in procedures * Risk of failure of the MIS Diversity of geography and language * Unavailability of vendors and their capacity to implement and support IT solutions * High cost of IT solutions for MFIs * Lack of commitment of management and key decision-makers within an MFI * Lack of awareness about the importance of IT The back-office MIS is the backbone of any Information System solution and yet it has not received much attention. MFIs, whether large or small, need to have a strong back-office MIS before attempting to deploy any advanced front-end applications or delivery channels. These would be worthless without having a strong and flexible back-office MIS in place. INTRODUCTION Management information systems (MIS)  have played a key role in the traditional banking sector for years, but microfinance institutions have been much slower to utilize this technology, primarily due to budgeting shortfalls. A  2009 CGAP survey   found that many microfinance institutions lack well-functioning information systems that would enable them to grow into vigorous institutions. Technology was consistently cited as one of the greatest challenges facing MFIs. Over the last several years, however, more and more MFIs have begun implementing information systems, which has the potential to provide several benefits to the industry as a whole and to MFIs in particular; ranging from loan tracking to greater transparency and risk management. Management information systems are essentially applications which enable an institution to better organize its data for the purposes of decision-making, efficiency, and external reporting. Rather than hidden within a pile of manila folders, the data is crisp, up to date, and presented in a compelling and practical form. Benefits include easier cash-flow management and forecasting, timely information regarding portfolio risk, real time performance updates, more efficient accounting procedures, and simplified external reporting. In sum, a good MIS can increase an organization’s efficiency and decrease its operating costs. The biggest hurdle to the utilization of such technologies among MFIs has been the prohibitively high cost of purchase and implementation. The CGAP survey found that a majority of MFIs use either custom-built or off-the-shelf systems to track their portfolios. But a new innovation,  SaaS  (Software as a Service), has been changing that. Typically the SaaS software vendor hosts the application on its web servers, which the customer can download on his mobile device or computer terminal on an on-demand basis. This system provides MFIs 24/7 access from anywhere in the world, real time information, data security and automatic backup. With an SaaS system an organization pays monthly â€Å"rent†, or in some cases a variable fee based on usage levels, for access to the software provider’s application. Instead of â€Å"buying† the software and using it in isolation, the purchaser gains access to the provider’s online cloud, and utilize the internet to deposit, organize, and access their information. With this changed cost structure, more and more MFIs have been able to integrate MIS into their organizational structure. SaaS technology is designed to serve international microfinance networks, such as Opportunity International, as well as national MFI branches, such as  Cresa Financial Services in India. Accordingly, SaaS services are emerging as the MIS model of choice for microfinance institutions. Difficulties in Adopting MIS A number of MIS solutions are emerging. Currently, there are 56 MIS applications listed on the CGAP website, although more are being used by various organizations that are not publicized. Despite the advances in MIS, practical experience shows that the acquisition of a suitable MIS is not simple. Many MFIs are struggling with their MIS. Some of the reasons for these difficulties are: * Microfinance operations are unique and complex, compared to commercial, retail banking. The Microfinance sector is still evolving and lacks standardization in its procedures, methodologies, customer characteristics, type of transactions and reporting. * There is no of-the-shelf software available that can address the requirements of every MFI. * Those MIS that are available are complex and costly for adoption by MFIs. * MFIs lack human and organizational capacity to develop or select an appropriate MIS. * MFIs operate in remote and difficult areas where communication and po wer infrastructure do not exist and are therefore constrained from using IT equipment required to run MIS applications. Outlook of MFIs It is evident that the MFIs around the world are diverse in their structure and practices. Following are some of the factors that differentiate MFIs from each other: 1. Type of organization: * NGO * MFI (non-regulate) * Regulated MF Institution * Microfinance banks 2. Type of Products and Services: * Minimalists (those who offer only credit services) * Loans as well as savings services * Full range of products (including loans, deposits, remittance, insurance, leasing and social services) 3. Organizational Structure: * Branch setup (small, medium and large) Staff structure * Departments (cost centre and profit centre) 4. Geography: * Area specific (operations are limited to a small area) * Country specific (operations are spread over an entire country) * Global operations (operating in multiple countries) 5. Operational Environment: * Rural areas * Urban areas * Other 6. Processes and procedures: * Models (associations, cooperatives, credit unions, Grameen, etc. ) 7. Regulatory environment 8. Reporting: * Management reporting * Stakeholder reporting * Microfinance networks and peer group reporting Information Systems used by MFIs The microfinance sector is also quite diverse in its use of information systems. Generally there are the following three types: 1. Manual System Some MFIs still rely on manual systems, which involve maintenance of records in forms and ledgers. Organizations having manual systems are either small micro-credit programs or NGOs. 2. Semi-automated System More than 50% of MFIs are operating in a semi-automated mode. Within this category, the spreadsheet is the common tool being used either in conjunction with a manual system or with an MIS application that does not fulfill the information requirements of the MFI. You read "Mis in Microfinance" in category "Essay examples" The majority of non-regulated MFIs have semi-automated systems. 3. Fully Automated System Few MFIs are fortunate enough to have a fully automated and integrated MIS, fulfilling the whole information requirements of the organization. Such systems are existent with banks or regulated MFIs. Disadvantage of manual systems: Some of the disadvantages of manual Information Systems are: * Too laborious and time consuming. * Prone to Errors. * Data manipulation and analysis is very difficult. * Maintenance of large amount of data is almost impossible. * Data and information is not secured. Loosely controlled. * Highly inflexible (addition of new products and change in business processes). Benefits of computerized MIS to Microfinance There is no doubt that â€Å"the right information† at â€Å"the right time† at â€Å"the right place†, is crucial in decision making. Therefore, information and data is considered among the most valuable assets fundamental to the success of a n organization. The primary roles of the MIS are to capture information, create new information, store information, and convey information to the user. The two major objectives of MFIs are Outreach and Sustainability. MIS can add substantial value in achieving both the objectives: * A major advantage of MIS is that it provides easy access to accurate and up-to-date information. For example, loan officers get information on loans that need follow-up, branch managers can monitor daily progress of the branch, and senior management can get a full picture of the portfolio performance and quality. Customers also get quick information on their accounts, payments and balances. * Detailed information is captured on customers and their activities that can then be used to assess client business to assess impact. It is also useful in tracking historical information of clients. * Activities, such as disbursements, repayments, deposits, withdrawals and money transfers are completed faster, better controlled and with minimum opportunity for errors. * Information is produced in user-required formats, which facilitates better understanding, setting priorities, objectives and strategy. * Key performance indicators provide an overview of the organization’s performance, efficiency and effectiveness of business procedures so that timely adjustments can be made. * Use of ICT helps make MFI services more interactive, accessible and transparent. In terms of innovation, ICT provides full flexibility to structure products and services to the needs of its target group. * Efficiency and productivity of staff is increased, as they are able to manage more products, customers, and transactions in less time. Integration and Consolidation With the growth and advancement of the microfinance industry, new in novations are being witnessed. Among these innovations, technology-based delivery channels and mechanisms are creating opportunities as well as intensifying the competitive environment for MFIs. These channels are not only targeted at lowering transaction costs and extending the reach of MFIs to large populations, but are also focused around customer convenience. These technology-based mechanisms enhance efficiency of the MFIs, while posing substantial challenges in managing such technologies. One of the main challenges is that of integration and consolidation. It is essential that the back office MIS has the flexibility to integrate with such systems. The back-office MIS has received little attention within the sector. The general perception is that new technology based delivery systems would easily integrate with the core MIS, whereas in reality it is not that simple. Examples show that MFIs that have adopted such systems without assessment of their core MIS are struggling to integrate these. Because of non-integration, MFIs fall back on electronic spreadsheets or manual procedures to prepare consolidated information. Integration and consolidation are very important for MFIs and inability to integrate new technological innovations holds them back, making them less rather than more efficient. Back-office MIS â€Å"Starting Point for MFIs† The backbone of any Information System (IS) is the core MIS as it holds the critical data, and manages the information. All other systems are add-ons. A simple core MIS comprises of two parts: I. Database – data structure; an organized set of tables designed to the needs of the business. All data of the organization resides in these tables. ii. Application Software – comprises of the user interface, business processes, procedures, reports and queries. Fig 1: Core MIS Adopting an MIS is strategically important for MFIs. They need to undertake a careful and detailed assessment of current and future needs before committing to a particular solution. Much of the system’s flexibility, expandability, and robustness depend on the strength of the backend components. Strong core MIS can deliver cost-effective integration of data, channels and processes, facilitating a single consolidated view of the whole portfolio. Core MIS can provide easy data entry for the backend database, making consolidation easy to achieve. Various studies reveal that a large number of MFIs operate manual systems despite having some kind of MIS in place. One of the reasons the MIS does not cope with the changing needs of the organization is that the backend does not have the right structure. It is important for both the MFIs and microfinance software vendors to concentrate and strengthen the Core MIS. Figure 2 shows a basic structure for the Core MIS for microfinance: Fig2: Core MIS for Microfinance Other Key Deciding Factors for IT Systems While the MIS needs to fulfill the business requirements of the organization, but other factors including appropriate infrastructure and hardware are also important in the success and optimal utilization of information systems. We can categorize the components of an information system solution into five areas: 1. Physical Architecture (Electricity/Power communication infrastructure) Physical architecture consists of basic wires or cables to gateways and powerhouses. Together with buildings, offices, and computers, the architecture provides services of voice, data, image and video transmission while the consistent power supply keeps everything live and running. Every system needs electric power, and if systems are required to communicate, then there must be an appropriate communication infrastructure. Usually MFIs operate in remote and underdeveloped areas where this is lacking. 2. Network Three types of environment setups could be made. i. Standalone Environment; MIS is run on individual PCs and data is stored locally. ii. Local Area Network (LAN); PCs are connected together to create a LAN. The network can be either peer-to-peer or client/server. Desirable is the Client/server network where data is stored and shared through a server in a secure way. iii. Wide Area Network (WAN); Branch offices and operation units can be connected through a WAN. It requires proper communication infrastructure and involves high cost to establishing a WAN. For online systems WAN is critical. 3. Hardware Type of hardware depends on the network environment. A client-server environment requires server and switch for connecting the workstations / PCs. . Database Generally databases can be categorized as local and client-server. Each category has its own strengths and weaknesses. These details can help MFIs in selecting the appropriate database: i. Local databases there are a number of local databases but the most widely used databases are Microsoft Access, FoxPro, Paradox, and file maker. ii. Client/Server databases iii. Mos t popular client/server databases also called enterprise databases include; Oracle, DB2, SQL Server, Myself, Sybase, and Informix are some of the commonly used client/server databases: 5. Application A combination of business processes and procedures, user interface, reports and controls operate on top of the backend system. A large variety of software development and report generation tools are available and used to write software applications. Getting the Right Fit MFIs face great challenges in choosing the right system solution that can best fit their business needs. An MIS for microfinance must have the following characteristics: 1. Cost effectiveness: Total ownership and lifetime system operations costs, including hardware, software, network, infrastructure and human resource. . Functionality flexibility: Fulfill maximum of the current business requirement and flexible enough to incorporate future changes. Capture and generate relevant information on an individual, group, and at a consolidated level. 3. Reliability: Incomplete and unreliable systems are dangerously risky and can hamper the business. Such systems do not produce the right results and are unable to complete pr ocesses to the desired level. Users could be misguided by such systems. 4. Simple to use: Should be user friendly and easy to setup and operate. Activities can be performed in a systematic way and flow. 5. Scalability: System should accommodate changes to products, services and delivery channels. It should grow as the business grows. For example, if the system design is scalable, it can be run on an individual PC, Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN). 6. Integration: Combining data from multiple sources is of great importance to microfinance. Integration of branches to get single consolidated picture should be a priority. Challenges faced by MFIs * Microfinance is a rapidly changing industry. Due to the ongoing volution of the industry, MFIs face difficulty in defining business objectives, needs, priorities and limitations for acquisition of an MIS solution. There is lack of standardization within the microfinance sector, and business practices of MFIs differ from each other. Consequently, software developers face problems in coming-up with an MIS that can be used by most of the MFIs. Common failures are due to ill defined business process and procedures. * There is a shortage of skilled professionals who can understand technology as well as the microfinance industry, and be able to suggest the right solution. Such professionals can act as a bridge in filling the gap between use of ICT and microfinance operations * Majority of the MFIs do not have the technical capacity and required resources to understand, adopt and implement MIS solutions. * Most MIS solutions are not affordable to the majority of MFIs. * In some cases there is a lack of vision and commitment from the management towards use of technology * Integration is becoming one of the big challenges, as most of the MIS solutions for microfinance are built on weak platforms, thus not being flexible and scalable enough to integrate with emerging technologies and delivery channels. Recommendations: * FMFB’s experience of adopting technology suggests that MFIs should invest in relevant technologies after thorough and careful assessment of their requirements. The requirement should be addressed in perspective of current needs and future plans. * So far the core MIS of MFIs has been neglected. MFIs should get their core MIS right before opting for any kind of delivery system. * The software industry needs to do more in developing quality software for microfinance sector. * Capacity within institutions to manage technology is key to successful implementation and operation of its MIS. MFIs should employ skilled IT professionals on their staff. * MFIs must adopt MIS solutions that not only meet their needs but are also manageable by the MFI from all aspects. In some cases small and medium size MFIs go beyond their needs in adopting an MIS that ultimately becomes a drain on their resources. Such systems reduce the organizations overall efficiency and ultimately their sustainability. * MFIs can get maximum benefit by investing in technology, and putting in a better MIS solution that works for them. MIS is a strategic investment for MFIs. * Progressive policies that make ICT accessible and affordable to the majority of the population are important for encouraging the use of ICT within microfinance and for the development of the microfinance sector. Conclusion The use of ICT can rightfully be to the strategic advantage of MFIs. Innovations in ICT have transformed traditional approaches to microfinance, facilitating growth and reducing cost. Some of the players have already started getting the benefit by using MIS and similar IT solutions, while the majority of the MFIs have yet to realize the importance of its use to achieve outreach and sustainability. The implementation of the right MIS still remains a big challenge faced by MFIs. Efforts are also made from various corners of the world in overcoming these challenges. CGAP’s Information System Support is a prudent initiative to assist MFIs in getting access to ICT, aligning their MIS and using the appropriate IT solution. One of the realizations is â€Å"first things first† i. e. having an appropriate core MIS first before other systems: keeping in mind the strategic importance of ICT to the microfinance industry, renewed efforts are required from all the stakeholders to overcome the challenges faced by the microfinance industry in taking on IT. References: – Cheryl Frankiewicz and published by CALMEADOW (2003). IT as a Strategic Tool for Microfinance in Africa – ADB Releases (2005). Pakistan Economic Update – Rao, M (2004), Microfinance ICTs: Exploring Mutual Benefits and Synergy, Orbicom – Firpo, J. (2005), Championing Scale in Microfinance: Technology’s Role in Delivering Accessible Financial Services to the Poor How to cite Mis in Microfinance, Essay examples