Administration by the research organisation

Although little administration was required and that which was needed was generally adequate, managing “intangible” aspects of the project is very challenging. This is in lieu that nothing like the project had been known exists in Malaysia. Thus the conditions of the project is highly experimental. Managing varied expectations from the community members in Bario, UNIMAS management to the society at large including the curiosity of the media and to other interested government agencies has been, and remain challenging. At the same time the team has to remain focus and sensitive to the intentions of the funding organisations.

The research team is therefore responsible to answer questions, to write reports, to deliver effectively to meet expectations of the beneficiaries in Bario. The team is still experimenting with ways and means to balance these different and sometimes contradicting intentions and desires. An organisational structure to manage the project at 2 levels was initiated by the research team.

Financial records were adequate and logistical support was sufficient. As the project was re-aligned into e-Bario, with funding support from the Government of Malaysia, so project leadership and financial control passed to the UNIMAS management.

Scientific management of the project

The early stages of community studies were adequately supported by the members of the research team who had experience of such research. Project partners facilitated later stages of technology deployment.

Technical and other support and administration by IDRC

IDRC support was crucial for team and institutional capacity building. In particular, participation by team members in the PAN Asia Telecentre and Leaning and Evaluation Group (PANTLEG) made valuable contributions to team and project development.