In this research, a considerable number of initial variables to assess NSDIs are identified based on critically reviewing existing assessment frameworks. After thoroughly reviewing the six case study countries, from the initially identified list of variables, a reduced list of measurable feasible variables has been developed. Following on from the review of the NSDI initiatives in the three continents and the critical analysis and comparison of the six case study countries, a set of common case study variables has also been derived.
Subsequently, a selected group of SDI experts has been consulted to give their opinion on the most important variables for assessment of NSDIs in developing countries out of the list of feasible variables. These expert variables have been compared and matched with the earlier defined case study variables.