Mobile training in micro business: Design science research for frugal innovation

The loan relationship between micro finance institutions (MFI) and micro businesses (MB) is crucial for the growth of small and micro businesses in Tanzania. Increase of smartphone ownership has opened possibilities to support small businesses with technology innovation. Our previous research has shown that the training services offered by MFIs to MBs face a number of challenges, for example poor attendace due to time and travel constraints. In this design science research (DSR) study, we engaged a team of a total of 50 MB and MFI owners, together with local software specialists and researchers, and designed a simple mobile application for delivery of learning materials, contextualised for the needs of MFIs and MBs. This paper describes the progress of this project, the developed prototypes, observations gained in each phase of the project, and recommendations for future research.