SAS In Developing Countries - Economic and social assistance activities in developing countries are opening up a large number of hitherto unexplored opportunities for the use of SAS software. Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) fund projects that could be aligned with SAS competencies such as anti-fraud, government transparency/efficiencies, risk management, anti-money laundering, performance management and financial management. Projects in the public sector are particularly attractive. SAS already has established a proven track record in tax compliance in the Philippines.

Recently, MDB public sector investment has amounted to more than $24 billion annually. All the MDBs are increasing resources to help countries improve "governance" and capacity. On a global level, the developing countries are attempting to reach Millennium Development Goals in the areas of poverty alleviation, education, equal rights for women, reduction of child death rates, improving health care, protecting the environment and natural resources, and more. At present, most members of the SAS community are unaware of these opportunities, just as the MDB technical assistance staff are unaware of the relevance of SAS to their project needs. The MDB concept of "capacity" should be expanded to include data management and analysis for better government and social progress. Your ideas are welcome! If you'd like to contact me privately, please send an email. [[1]]