"This Framework is organised in the sequence of a logical approach to the design of information systems that are intended to deliver socio-economic benefits via Telecentres for the purpose of community level development and poverty reduction. Telecentres are promoted as an answer to the problems of the digital divide, whereby large sections of society do not enjoy access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and are seen to be excluded from the socio-economic benefits that such access brings. By providing shared, community-based access to ICTs, Telecentres help to overcome this disparity. However, this framework for designing Telecentres is based on the understanding that whilst access to ICTs is important, of itself, it is insufficient. Telecentres should be capable of making use of ICTs in a way that delivers tangible benefits to their communities, and are therefore tools for development rather than an end in themselves. The Framework therefore provides a guide for implementing local development with the use of ICTs, in the form of a Telecentre. The audience for this Framework is the institutions or individuals involved in, or contemplating, the setting up of Telecentres. In such a process, the technology is not the objective, the development outcomes are. Accordingly, these are identified at the outset, and then expressed in terms of improved information flows, partnership relationships and choices of technology, which are finally realised through the implementation, operation and ultimately evaluation of the Telecentre." (Introduction, page 4)