Paris Microfinance Network

Resources: Technology

The world of technology is slowly converging upon the Microfinance industry. There have been a variety of financial/accounting management packages launched for the MF sector but they still lack the more advanced features & functions required for optimal efficiency.

Additonally, we have seen a few successful handheld loan processing & wireless apps, along with mobile banking projects that have revolutionized many MFI and banking processes & methods. There continue to be very exciting projects underway & with the commitment of many organisations, we are very optimistic about the depth & breadth of Microfinance reach.

Using efficient software & wireless applications is an essential approach to advance MFIs efforts in managing clients & expanding reach into rural areas. Several projects that have made solid inroads at creating efficiencies & offering better client service :

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PDA's (Personal Digital Assistant)

One technology solution, is the use of handheld devices (PDA's) which loan officers can use to process loan applications, payments & other services such as client data, by capturing data electronically & remotely and then uploading the information into their IT system. Several companies have created applications and conducted pilots to test how such PDA tools could acquire & retain customers, cut labor & material costs, save time & reduce data-input entry.

PortaCredit

PortaCredit combines financial analysis, loan processing, and risk analysis into an easy-to-use software application that can run on wireless devices such as PalmPilots. Read more.....

SatelLife - Handheld PDA system for Rural Healthcare

Case study & usage findings. SatelLife has been passionately experimenting with handheld device usage in Africa since 2001 striving to improve health communication & information sharing. Read more.....

Remote Transaction System (RTS)

In 2002, Hewlett Packard formed a partnership with a number of microfinance networks (MFIs) in Uganda and commercial partners working in related areas to explore how technology could be used effectively to help scale microfinance especially in rural areas. Read more.....

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eBanking

Mobile Banking Project in South Africa (study published Nov 2006)

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Technology Development Programs

Finance-software app evaluations (great list of reviews published ‘06)

IT Survey Rafad created an online survey where MFIs can answer questions regarding their IS infrastructure. The survey will help Rafad, CGAP & other organizations better understand technology needs/usage & improve market offerings for MFIs. The results will be released in early 2007 & thus far over 100MFIs have responded.

Grameen Technology Programs

CGAP Technology Program