A guide to starting, managing, and running an eRider project has been released by the Tactical Technology Collective with funding from OSI's Information Program.

A movement of technology assistance providers working in developing and transition countries has been emerging since 1997. Known as eRiders, their work is based on the Circuit Rider model used successfully in the United States to provide nonprofit organizations with assistance in using technology to build capacities. The eRiding model has been effectively used internationally to bring struggling organizations up to speed in the use of technology to fulfill their mission.

The starter kit draws on the experience and work of eRiders in over 15 countries and 400 organizations. Along with providing methodologies behind setting up eRider projects, the starter kit also provides samples and templates used in existing eRider projects, such as budgets and needs assessments.

Designed to become a living document, the starter kit will incorporate experiences and models of eRiding as they develop. A copy of the kit is available below. For more information go to www.eRiders.net.