Many lessons can be learned from research in deserts whether they concern earth history, arid ecology, human adaptations, changing environments or application of technologies. Several key lessons stand out. These include the essential role of a communication platform to enhance understanding and knowledge exchange among scientists, communities living in the deserts and policy makers influencing implementation. Another key lesson to be learned from a variable environment is that identifying technology applications is easy, while ensuring acceptance and appropriate management is the challenge. Keywords: Appropriate management, Communication platform, Variable environment.