Taking the developing world as the context this work elaborates, through a series of case studies, a commomly used systems analysis methodology. It shows how this methodology can evolve and adapt as new ideas become prominent. Issues of sustainability of information systems, participation in systems design and user ownership of systems are all examined. This text does not attempt to be prescriptive for all contexts nor does it focus on any particular technology. It addresses the essential questions and offers practical approaches aimed at helping in the avoidance of the worst forms of disaster associated with the planning of information systems for developing countries.