Requirements for a suite to design e-logistics brokering services in rural areas

Implementing new technologies in service delivery has been a key challenge particularly in rural areas. To address this challenge service providers need to be equipped with the ability to enhance their service delivery through the design of ICT-enabled, demand-driven services. To achieve this effectively, ICT-enabled service systems design approaches need to be promoted and applied. We state that effective service design can be best done using software toolkits that are tailored to the specific needs for rural areas. Through this research, we developed a software suite for the design of e-logistics brokering services in rural areas and tested its application using action research. We discuss the requirements for such a suite facilitating the design of e-logistics services that meet local user needs.