
## 2.1 Mpts

The MPTS ( Multipurpose Tree and Shrub Database) was conceived and developed by ICRAF (International Centre for Research in Agroforestry). It is a user-friendly computing tool developed for the retrieval of detailed information on multipurpose tree and shrub species. The earlier versions of MPTS was a software that allows the user to browse species or create parameters for the selection of species based on any number of physical and social variables. The MPTS Users' manual describes it as, "a computer-based information and decision-support system founded on an inventory of existing information about multipurpose tree and shrub species in the tropics and sub-tropics. In the context of the database, multipurpose trees and shrubs are those that are deliberately grown or kept in integrated land-use systems and are often managed for more than one output. 

The main objective of the database is to provide detailed information on a large number of species to field workers and researchers who are engaged in activities involving woody perennials suitable for agroforestry systems and technologies. It is designed to help them make rational decisions regarding the choice of candidate species for specific sites and defined purposes." 

## 2.2 Lims

LIMS (**Laboratory Information Management Systems) is an information system** 
being developed as joint collaboration between ICRISAT's scientists, Government of India, and Senior Scientist from the Directorate of Oilseeds Research all in Hyderabad, India. The system track laboratory samples, tests, results, archive data, and then produce timely and accurate reports reducing internal bottlenecks. It streamlines work and lowers costs while speeding processing times and turnaround. Computerized data collection and reporting systems built around a centralized database provides these productivity benefits. The Laboratory Information Management Systems, or LIMS, exist in many sizes and configurations, offering solutions to a host of applications and industries. Continuous work is going on on LIMS. Examples of new improvement being made include (a) sample tracking, (b) 
DNA extraction tracking, (c) DNA quantification tracking and (d) DNA dilution tracking. Newer version is hoped to be released for testing in first quarter of 2003. 

There is no indication of integrating this system to a wider internet forum.

## 2.3 Singer

The System-wide Information Network for Genetic Resources (SINGER) is the genetic resources information exchange network of the International Agricultural Research Centres of the CGIAR. It provides access to information on the collections of genetic resources held by the CG centres. Together, these collections comprise over half a million samples of crop, forage and tree germplasm of major importance for food and agriculture. 

It links the genetic resources information systems of the individual CG centers around the world, allowing them to be accessed and searched collectively. SINGER contains key data on the identity, source, characteristics and transfers to users. It is a web-based system. Though SINGER makes rooms for contribution from users, 2