NGO-In-A-Box, South Asia project
NGO-in-a-box is a collection of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) tools selected for use by non-profit organisations. The tools are distributed in downloadable form and as a physical box set of CDs. The content of the CDs is chosen by experienced practitioners who work with non-profit organisations on a diverse range of issues. Several need oriented editions of NGO-in-a-box aim to provide organisations with the software they need in relation to different topics and requirements. The tools are provided with documentation and material to support the scenarios in which they may be used.
NGO-in-a-box is designed to increase the accessibility of FOSS to non-profit groups in developing and transition countries. It overcomes the necessity for prolonged testing and selection processes and long downloads. Since its birth in 2003 regional NGO-in-a-box editions have been distributed in Africa, Latin America, Europe and Asia. The NGO-in-a-box project is now diversifying further. More editions for specific geographical areas or needs-based groups will be launched using regional hubs for distribution and localisation of content.
http://ngoinabox.mahiti.org has more details on the project
As a regional hub of the project, Mahiti will focus on promoting and advocating for the adoption of the NGO-in-a-box thematic editions within the NGO community in India, Sri Lanka and across South Asia. Mahiti's plan is to broadly reach out to a large number of NGOs with domain specific editions of NGO-in-a-box and also to educate and encourage a select group of NGOs on the suite of thematic editions available, supporting them with the migration. It will supply NGO-in-a-box on CD with South Asia specific additions to 1200 South Asian non-profit organisations over a two year period. In addition, several training workshops will be scheduled for individual organisations from specific sectors or groups. These organisations will be given face-to-face training with guided hand-on practical sessions. They will also be provided support to help them make the best use of IT in their most common tasks. There will be 8 workshops held over a period of two years, providing this training for a total of 80 participants.
An important aspect of the project is to nurture the growth of a community around the NGO-in-a-box tools. This community will comprise of supporters and beneficiaries and it will provide a vital base to ensure the continued success and sustainability of the project. Technical volunteers will be involved as part of the Mahiti support team, whilst outside organisations will be encouraged to act as additional distribution channels for NGO-in-a-box editions. Community members will be able to swap experiences, address problems and make updates and innovations to NGO-in-a-box through a central website and mailing list.
For more details visit http://ngoinabox.mahiti.org