THRUST1: ICT for Tomorrow's Science

This Thrust of the ICT-KM Program is divided into two sections: improving the communication infrastructure within the CGIAR, and facilitating scientific innovation within specific communities of practice.

Infrastructure

Global Advanced Research Networks
This project will initially connect at least four CGIAR Centers by high-capacity links to global research networks with high-speed connections to universities and advanced research institutes. The application of grid computing over these networks will also be tested.

Second-Level Connectivity
The objective of Second-Level Connectivity is to upgrade Internet access at up to 50 of our small and mid-sized remote locations, with particular emphasis on Africa. Subsequently, scientists at these sites will be able to connect with partners and access information resources around the globe, leading to a new level of collaboration and information sharing.

Enterprise Security and Business Continuity
The Enterprise Security and Business Continuity aims to protect valuable CGIAR information assets, manage information security risks by implementing a secure information architecture and minimize disruption in operations in case of a disaster by putting in place a comprehensive business continuity program.

Videoconferencing for Enhanced Collaboration
This pilot project will evaluate the use of desktop videoconferencing at central and principal regional locations for supporting collaboration within CGIAR communities of practice.

Scientific Innovation

CSI: Thinking Spatially, Acting Globally for a Sustainable Future
The Consortium for Spatial Information (CSI) will bring CGIAR's geo-spatial data into conformity with global standards. It will also develop a Web portal where researchers can easily access such data, and will provide the Centers and the research community at large with user-friendly geo-spatial knowledge generation and management tools. This project will also considerably strengthen the community of CGIAR staff who are active in geo-spatial work.

Utilization of Intelligent Information Systems for Plant Protection
This project will develop a plant protection expert system to assist training staff in the diagnosis and treatment of crop diseases, enabling farmers to use the resulting knowledge to increase the productivity and profitability of their crops.