Policy Paper for the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The case studies outlines a methodology for assessing the problems and potentials of indigenous building methods; and in each area point out how these can be used and developed to meet contemporary shelter needs and how problems that exist can be overcome; without necessitating a departure to new; imported or expensive solutions which are often beyond the financial range of the individuals in developing countries and are also frequently socially; culturally and environmentally inappropriate.