Preface

During the last fifteen years the momentum for developing and implementing Integrated Financial Management Systems (IFMS) has grown in Latin America. Programs have been implemented with varying degrees of success--later projects learning from earlier ones.

This guide provides a substantive overview of IFMS. It seeks to make the concept and experience of implementing IFMS in Latin America accessible to a variety of parties--those who are financial managers, and those who are not. Its focus is the management aspects of IFMS.

In the modern age, strong financial management in the public sector is a necessity, not a luxury. Citizen confidence in public institutions is sharply affected by the degree to which such institutions are perceived to be well managed--including and especially financially. Transparency in government and accountability for resources are essential elements of a strong, democratic society.

The Institute for Democratic Strategies (IDS) is a nonprofit organization working to strengthen democratic institutions across traditionally separated sectors. IDS was founded on the belief that democratic institutions cannot be sustained unless development is integrated at all levels and across all sectors. Its approach emphasizes dialogue between the private and public sectors and civil society to establish methods of sustainable development. Improving the financial management of the public sector can have a wide impact on the quality of citizens lives, the long-term growth potential of the private sector and the overall development of a country. Successfully implementing IFMS provides governments with a tool to help achieve those goals.

Margaret Bartel, CPA

December, 1996