ELD Training

ELD Training

Supporting development partners worldwide through practical training and consultancy.

This is where we share:

- News
- Training photos
- Links to useful resources
- Links to free ELD materials like our toolkits

And where you can talk to us and share your ideas

MANAGING RISK IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN & DEVELOPMENT WORK 18/08/2024

Limited number of free places.

MANAGING RISK IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN & DEVELOPMENT WORK UNLOCKING PROJECT SUCCESS THROUGH EFFECTIVE RISK MANAGEMENT

PROJECT PLANNING & PROPOSAL WRITING 13/08/2024

WHY DO PROPOSALS FAIL? AND HOW TO GET IT RIGHT?

Often, even the best project ideas fail to get support. In relief, humanitarian, and development work, being able to craft a successful proposal is essential. But too many proposals fail. They are ignored or get rejected. When we understand why this happens - and how to improve your proposals – we can significantly boost our chances of success.

COMMON REASONS PROPOSALS FAIL:

1. MISALIGNMENT WITH DONOR INTERESTS:
Proposals often fail because the project's purpose and outcomes don't align with donors' interests. Understanding what donors are willing to support is essential.

2. LACK OF PROBLEM CLARITY:
If the problem faced by the end users isn't well articulated, donors may not see the need for intervention. A detailed problem analysis is vital to convince donors of a project's importance.

3. POOR COMMUNICATION:
Sometimes, a proposal fails simply because it is poorly written or hard to understand, even if the underlying ideas are sound. Clarity and coherence are critical in proposal writing.

4. NON-COMPLIANCE WITH GUIDELINES:
Failing to follow donors' guidelines can result in a proposal being dismissed. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial to meeting donor expectations.

HOW TO GET IT RIGHT:

1. IDENTIFY THE RIGHT PROJECT:
Ensure the project aligns with the donor’s interests and addresses a significant problem. The project should add value by tackling a global, regional, or national priority.

2. PERSUASIVE PROPOSAL:
Convince the donor that the problem is urgent and deserving of attention. Show that your organization has a viable solution and the capability to implement it.

3. ORGANIZE CLEARLY AND LOGICALLY:
Structure your proposal to present your ideas clearly and persuasively, demonstrating your organization’s capacity and comparative advantage.

Ready to enhance your proposal writing skills? Join our top-rated course on Project Planning and Proposal Writing, designed specifically for professionals in relief, humanitarian, and development sectors. (And for the next 5 days, the course is available for $9.99.)

PROJECT PLANNING & PROPOSAL WRITING DESIGN PROJECTS THAT DONORS WILL SUPPORT AND WRITE PROPOSALS THAT PERSUADE

05/08/2024

THE ROLE OF THE FACILITATOR IN FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION

One of the key differences between a regular group and a development or relief-focused focus group is the role of the facilitator. This responsibility often falls on project staff who may not be trained in the art of facilitation. Even so, understanding your role can support you in managing the group discussion more effectively.

Key Roles and Expertise Required for Facilitators

1. Creating a Safe Space:

Establish an inclusive environment where participants feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and experiences.
Skills in group dynamics and conflict resolution are crucial to ensure the discussion remains respectful and supportive.

2. Structuring the Discussion Agenda:

Align the agenda with the goals of the relief or community development effort.
Craft focused and relevant questions, ensuring the discussion stays on track while allowing room for exploration.

3. Encouraging Participation:

Actively encourage all participants, including those who might be hesitant, to contribute.
Use engagement techniques to draw out diverse perspectives, ensuring marginalized and less vocal participants are heard.

4. Navigating Power Dynamics:

Ensure the discussion is not dominated by certain individuals or groups.
Skills in managing conflicts and balancing participation are essential to create an atmosphere where everyone feels valued.

5. Ensuring Diverse Representation:

Work to ensure that diverse voices representing different demographics and perspectives are adequately represented.
Use inclusive recruitment strategies and culturally sensitive approaches to seek input from underrepresented groups.

6. Guiding Discussions Beyond Surface-Level Insights:

Encourage participants to explore complex development issues deeply.
Ask probing questions and facilitate meaningful dialogue to generate in-depth insights relevant to the initiative.

7. Managing Emotional Dynamics:

Help maintain a constructive atmosphere, using empathetic listening to create a supportive space for sharing experiences without fear or judgment.

8. Translating Cultural Nuances:

Bridge cultural gaps to ensure discussions are culturally sensitive.
Interpret and navigate cultural differences to ensure the focus group is inclusive and respectful.

Hypothetical Scenario: Post-Disaster Relief Focus Group

Imagine a community recovering from a natural disaster, such as a flood or earthquake. A relief organization conducts a focus group to understand the immediate needs and long-term recovery aspirations of the community. Some community members express frustration about the distribution of relief materials, while others are hesitant to speak up due to fear of repercussions.

Facilitator’s Approach:

Use conflict resolution and cultural sensitivity skills to acknowledge concerns and assure confidentiality, creating a safe space.
Use empathetic listening to encourage open dialogue and share grievances constructively.
Guide the group in brainstorming solutions collaboratively, ensuring the discussion leads to actionable insights for the relief organization.

In this scenario, the facilitator’s skills in creating safety, managing emotions, addressing power dynamics, and promoting inclusive participation are key. Their expertise contributes to a focused and productive discussion, enabling the relief organization to collect valuable insights for more effective and sensitive relief efforts.

LEARN MORE: UNLOCKING THE POWER OF FOCUS GROUPS IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN & DEVELOPMENT WORK

Focus groups offer a unique avenue to understand the diverse needs, opinions, and aspirations of the communities you serve. With our training program, you will be able to unlock the full potential of focus groups as dynamic platforms for community engagement and co-creation.

https://www.udemy.com/course/focus-groups-in-relief-humanitarian-development-contexts/?referralCode=D8BAF9F6B558A7BFE55D

31/07/2024

NEW FREE COURSE FOR AUGUST

STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

Effective stakeholder management is fundamental to the success of relief, humanitarian, and development projects. This training provides you with vital skills and strategic insights to navigate the intricate stakeholder landscape. By cultivating robust relationships and deepening your understanding of diverse stakeholder needs, you'll drive initiatives that are sustainable, impactful and aligned with aspirations of the communities they aim to serve.

Stakeholder engagement goes beyond interaction; it embodies transformative potential. Through active listening and collaborative partnership with stakeholders, your projects can achieve:

• Enhanced effectiveness
• Long-term sustainability
• Alignment with community aspirations and priorities

https://www.udemy.com/course/stakeholder-engagement-in-relief-humanitarian-contexts/?couponCode=C9B9E5CFD16DA6F1B109

NOTES:

1. This link is only valid until 4 August
2. Please leave a review / rating for the course!

31/07/2024

ELD TRAINING NEWS AUGUST 2024

FREE: RISK IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN & DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

This month our free offering covers the first two steps of effective risk management. Risk Identification and Assessment are essential steps in planning to manage risk in relief, humanitarian, and development projects.

In the five sessions, I will walk you through the steps of:

• Introduction to Risk Management
• Risk Identification
• Assessing Likelihood
• Assessing Impact
• Application to Projects
The course is free, and you will have access for 30 days after signing up. The course is available until 31 August.

Link: https://www.eldtraining.com/p/free-risk-identification-and-assessment
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ANNOUNCEMENT: TIERED PRICING

We understand that different organizations have different financial capabilities, especially in the relief and humanitarian sector. To ensure our training is accessible to all, we offer a two-tiered pricing system based on an honesty basis. This approach allows us to support those who need it most while maintaining our commitment to quality and sustainability.

What this means is that for each training you will see two prices – a regular price and a lower fee for organizations and individuals with limited resources. We trust you to select the pricing tier that best reflects your organization's budget.

This tiered pricing is available for all courses – including live / zoom training as well as self-study courses on theory of change, reporting skills, results-based management, risk management, advocacy … all our courses.
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UPCOMING TRAINING AUGUST 2024

Our next round of scheduled courses combining dynamic, live online meetings and self-study resume in August. All courses are limited to 8 participants.

REPORTING SKILLS & PROFESSIONAL WRITING IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

ZOOM TRAINING: 21 AUGUST - 18 SEPTEMBER 2024

This training is for anyone in working in relief, humanitarian or development contexts who is involved with data collection, analysis or reporting. You will learn a step-by-step process for reporting that will reduce wasted time and deadline stress, and ensure your reports have more impact.

Link: https://eldtraining.com/p/reporting-skills-august-2024
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RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT & M&E PLANNING IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

ZOOM TRAINING: 22 AUGUST - 19 SEPTEMBER 2024

Deliver better results and positively impact the lives of your target groups and communities with this practical course. Designed for project managers, relief / humanitarian / development workers, and Monitoring and Evaluation staff, this program will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to design and monitor projects that deliver measurable results.

Link: https://eldtraining.com/p/resultsbasedmanagement-august-2024
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PROJECT PLANNING & PROPOSAL WRITING IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

ZOOM TRAINING: 28 AUGUST - 25 SEPTEMBER 2024

This training is for anyone in working in relief, humanitarian or development contexts who is involved with project planning or developing compelling proposals. This training will support you with the practical tools and knowledge you need to design projects that respond to beneficiary needs and donor demands, and to plan, draft and edit proposals that persuade.

Link: https://eldtraining.com/p/project-planning-proposal-writing-august-2024

www.eldtraining.com

27/07/2024

MASTERING THEORY OF CHANGE

I'm making this course free for the next 7 days to all in my network.
However, I'd really appreciate it if you leave a rating / review.

https://www.udemy.com/course/mastering-theory-of-change/?couponCode=21B2F162B5C1D3C99E12

17/07/2024

MASTERING THEORY OF CHANGE: FINAL CALL

This is the last day of our $9.99 USD offer on our latest training course on ToC.

Through a Theory of Change, projects can:

• Clarify project purpose and intended impact
• Align efforts with desired outcomes
• Test and validate underlying assumptions to ensure project viability
• Steer projects more effectively towards desired outcomes

This is the last day to get this course for under $10 USD, so you can:

• Enhance project planning and ex*****on
• Ensue that initiatives are impactful, sustainable, and aligned with community needs.

https://www.udemy.com/course/mastering-theory-of-change/?couponCode=51583600304A1581B263

www.aweber.com 30/06/2024

ELD Training News August 2024

www.aweber.com

FREE: INTRODUCTION TO THEORY OF CHANGE 27/06/2024

FREE: INTRODUCTION TO THEORY OF CHANGE

FREE UNTIL 31 JULY 2024

Theory of Change is essential for planning, implementing, and evaluating social change initiatives, including those in relief, humanitarian, and development projects. It provides a detailed road-map outlining the steps and conditions required to achieve desired outcomes.

Through a Theory of Change, projects can:

• Clarify project purpose and intended impact
• Align efforts with desired outcomes
• Test and validate underlying assumptions to ensure project viability
• Steer projects more effectively towards desired outcomes
This approach enhances project planning and ex*****on, ensuring that initiatives are impactful, sustainable, and aligned with community needs.

In the four videos, I will walk you through the steps of:

• What is a Theory of Change?
• The role of Theory of Change in relief, humanitarian and development work
• The role and importance of assumptions
• Goals, Outcomes and Impact in the Theory of Change context

The course is free, and you will have access for 30 days after signing up.

FREE: INTRODUCTION TO THEORY OF CHANGE Theory of Change is essential for planning, implementing, and evaluating social change initiatives, including those in relief, humanitarian, and development projects. It provides a detailed road-map outlining the steps and conditions required to achieve desired outcomes.

FREE: INTRODUCTION TO THEORY OF CHANGE 27/06/2024

FREE: INTRODUCTION TO THEORY OF CHANGE

FREE UNTIL 31 JULY 2024

Theory of Change is essential for planning, implementing, and evaluating social change initiatives, including those in relief, humanitarian, and development projects. It provides a detailed road-map outlining the steps and conditions required to achieve desired outcomes.

Through a Theory of Change, projects can:

• Clarify project purpose and intended impact
• Align efforts with desired outcomes
• Test and validate underlying assumptions to ensure project viability
• Steer projects more effectively towards desired outcomes

This approach enhances project planning and ex*****on, ensuring that initiatives are impactful, sustainable, and aligned with community needs.

In the four videos, I will walk you through the steps of:

• What is a Theory of Change?
• The role of Theory of Change in relief, humanitarian and development work
• The role and importance of assumptions
• Goals, Outcomes and Impact in the Theory of Change context

The course is free, and you will have access for 30 days after signing up.

FREE: INTRODUCTION TO THEORY OF CHANGE Theory of Change is essential for planning, implementing, and evaluating social change initiatives, including those in relief, humanitarian, and development projects. It provides a detailed road-map outlining the steps and conditions required to achieve desired outcomes.

Announcement: THEORY OF CHANGE 25/06/2024

Announcement: THEORY OF CHANGE

Announcement: THEORY OF CHANGE Hello This is Neil Kendrick from ELD Training. We have been busy – with another new training released today. Again, there’s a discount for early…

STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS 21/06/2024

STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

ENHANCING PROJECT SUCCESS THROUGH INCLUSIVE STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

Effective stakeholder management is fundamental to the success of relief, humanitarian, and development projects. This training provides you with vital skills and strategic insights to navigate the intricate stakeholder landscape. By cultivating robust relationships and deepening your understanding of diverse stakeholder needs, you'll drive initiatives that are sustainable, impactful and aligned with aspirations of the the communities they aim to serve.

Stakeholder engagement goes beyond interaction; it embodies transformative potential. Through active listening and collaborative partnership with stakeholders, your projects can achieve:
• Enhanced effectiveness
• Long-term sustainability
• Alignment with community aspirations and priorities
WHAT THIS COURSE COVERS
• MASTERING STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS: Gain expert insights into identifying and analyzing stakeholders, understanding their power, interests, and influence on project success.
• COMMUNICATION AND STAKEHOLDER UNDERSTANDING: Learn how to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
• DEVELOPING A STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT PLAN: Craft a comprehensive stakeholder management plan, addressing the needs and expectations of key stakeholders to enhance project outcomes.
• STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES: Develop tailored engagement strategies that align with stakeholder power and influence, ensuring effective collaboration and buy-in.
• INTEGRATING STAKEHOLDER PERSPECTIVES INTO PROJECT PLANNING, MONITORING & EVALUATION: Understand the importance of incorporating stakeholder insights into project planning, monitoring, and evaluation for more inclusive and sustainable development.
All topics are supported by frequent, clear, practical examples and case studies from relief, humanitarian, and development work.

You can see all the sessions (including free modules) in the curriculum at the link. And there is a 20% discount for anyone joining this course within June 2024 (coupon code STAKEHOLDER)

STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS Effective stakeholder management is fundamental to the success of relief, humanitarian, and development projects. This training provides you with vital skills and strategic insights to navigate the intricate stakeholder landscape. By cultivating robust relationships and deepening your understanding....

Announcement: Stakeholder Management and Engagement in Relief, Humanitarian And Development Contexts 21/06/2024

Announcement: Stakeholder Management and Engagement in Relief, Humanitarian And Development Contexts

Announcement: Stakeholder Management and Engagement in Relief, Humanitarian And Development Contexts Hello This is Neil Kendrick from ELD Training. We have some news – another new training is released today; one we are very e cited about. (And there’s…

FOCUS GROUPS IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN & DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS 10/06/2024

FOCUS GROUPS IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

Focus groups have transformative potential. When we actively listen to communities, tailoring strategies based on their insights and fostering ongoing engagement, development initiatives become:

• More effective
• More sustainable
• Aligned with the aspirations and priorities of the people they aim to serve

This is newly launched course which we are offering FREE to the first 100 students. Please only use if:
- You actually need the course
- You are willing to leave a review

FOCUS GROUPS IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN & DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS AMPLIFYING IMPACT THROUGH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT, MONITORING & EVALUATION 03/06/2024

RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT, MONITORING & EVALUATION

• Design, monitor and evaluate projects that get results
• Apply the results-based management (RBM) philosophy and principles to drive highly impactful development results
• Use the logical framework approach (LFA) to easily design, monitor and evaluate humanitarian and development projects
• Use RBM and LFA to consistently deliver positive, measurable change that will keep your stakeholders and donors satisfied

RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT, MONITORING & EVALUATION Design, Monitor And Evaluate Projects That Get Results

ELD TRAINING NEWS JUNE 2024 31/05/2024

ELD TRAINING NEWS JUNE 2024

ELD TRAINING NEWS JUNE 2024 Hello This is Neil Kendrick from ELD Training. In this month’s news we cover:FREE TRAINING COURSE FOR JUNE 2025: INTRODUCTION TO STAKEHOLDER…

RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT & M&E PLANNING IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS 09/05/2024

ELD TRAINING NEWS MAY 2024

In this month’s news we cover:
• NEW COURSES RELEASED IN 2024
• FREE TRAINING COURSE FOR MAY 2025: INTRODUCTION TO RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT
• SCHEDULED TRAINING COURSES JUNE 2024

NEW COURSES RELEASED IN 2024

UNLOCKING THE POWER OF FOCUS GROUPS IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN & DEVELOPMENT WORK

Focus groups have transformative potential. When we actively listen to communities, tailoring strategies based on their insights and fostering ongoing engagement, development initiatives become:

• More effective
• More sustainable
• Aligned with the aspirations and priorities of the people they aim to serve.

https://eldtraining.com/p/focus

RISK MANAGEMENT IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN & DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

The environments in which relief, humanitarian, and development work take place are often dynamic and unpredictable. Effective risk management allows organizations to respond before problems escalate, whether they are natural disasters, conflict situations, or socioeconomic shifts, ensuring they can continue to meet the needs of affected populations.

https://eldtraining.com/p/risk-management-for-relief-humanitarian-development-projects

PLANNING FOR ADVOCACY

Advocacy is a key component of relief, development, and humanitarian work. And it can also be our core approach when we want to:

• Address unmet needs in the target community.
• Reverse or correct a situation.
• Prevent the loss of a valued asset or program.
• Change public opinion.

https://eldtraining.com/p/advocacy

FREE TRAINING COURSE FOR MAY 2025: INTRODUCTION TO RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT

This month’s free training in an Introduction to Results-Based Management. This short course covers:

• The history and principles of RBM
• What are results and what is the Results Chain?
• How RBM differs from other project management approaches
• How RBM aligns with the Project Cycle
• The rewards and challenges of implementing Results-Based Management

https://eldtraining.com/p/results-based-management-intro

SCHEDULED TRAINING COURSES JUNE 2024

REPORTING SKILLS & PROFESSIONAL WRITING IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

ZOOM TRAINING: 12 JUNE - 10 JULY 2024

This training is for anyone in working in relief, humanitarian or development contexts who is involved with data collection, analysis, or reporting. You will learn a step-by-step process for reporting that will reduce wasted time and deadline stress, and ensure your reports have more impact.

https://eldtraining.com/p/reporting-skills-june-2024

RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT & M&E PLANNING IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS

ZOOM TRAINING: 19 JUNE - 17 JULY 2024

Designed for project managers, relief humanitarian / development workers, and Monitoring and Evaluation staff, this program will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to design and monitor projects that deliver measurable results.

https://eldtraining.com/p/resultsbasedmanagement-june-2024

RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT & M&E PLANNING IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTS DESIGN, MONITOR & EVALUATE PROJECTS THAT GET RESULTS

Announcement: Unlocking the Power of Focus Groups in Relief, Humanitarian and Development Work 08/05/2024

Announcement: Unlocking the Power of Focus Groups in Relief, Humanitarian and Development Work

Announcement: Unlocking the Power of Focus Groups in Relief, Humanitarian and Development Work Hello This is Neil Kendrick from ELD Training. We have some news – another new training is released today; one we are very e cited about. (And there’s…

ELD TRAINING NEWS MAY 2024 02/05/2024

ELD TRAINING NEWS MAY 2024

ELD TRAINING NEWS MAY 2024 Hello This is Neil Kendrick from ELD Training. In this month’s news we cover:NEW SELF-STUDY COURSES RELEASED IN 2024FREE TRAINING COURSE FOR MAY 2025:…

24/04/2024

EXPECTATION VS ASPIRATION IN INDICATORS

Should indicators be based on what we can easily achieve, or should we be aiming higher?

During a recent online training a participant asked “when we define indicators, should they be based on information that's already available to us on the ground? Or are indicators more aspirational? (In the example used in the training, there was an indicator of access to at least 3 litres of water a day for IDPs.)

When defining indicators, we encounter a nuanced interplay between expectation and aspiration. A balanced approach often combines both grounded expectations and aspirational targets. This ensures that we track progress while also aiming for transformative change.

Let’s delve into their distinct meanings:

EXPECTATION

Grounded in Reality: Expectations are often based on existing information or historical trends. They reflect what is likely to happen given the current context.

Quantifiable Metrics: Expectations are typically quantifiable and rely on data. For instance, if we expect everyone to have access to at least 3 litres of water per day, it implies that this level of access is feasible and achievable based on available resources and infrastructure.

Practical and Feasible: Expectations are pragmatic and consider practical constraints. They align with what can reasonably be accomplished.

Example: If similar relief efforts have consistently provided 3 litres of water per person per day, we might expect this to be a realistic target.

ASPIRATION

Desired Outcomes: Aspirations, on the other hand, express desired results or outcomes that go beyond the status quo. They are visionary and reflect an ideal state.

Ambitious Commitments: Aspirational indicators set a high bar. They represent what we hope to achieve even if it requires significant effort, innovation, and investment.

Qualitative or Quantitative: Aspirations can be both qualitative (expressing values, principles, or ideals) and quantitative (measurable goals).

Example: Aspiring for universal access to 3 litres of water per day means aiming for a world where everyone enjoys this basic necessity, regardless of current limitations.

So, expectations are grounded on existing conditions and likely expectation based on our knowledge of the context and past experience. Aspirations are forward-looking, reflecting our vision for a better future. When defining indicators, a balanced approach often combines both grounded expectations and aspirational targets so we can deliver trackable results while also aiming for the best results possible.

Join us to learn more about Results-Based Management at www.eldtraining.com.

Final Call for Enrollment | April 2024 Courses 17/04/2024

Final Call for Enrollment | April 2024 Courses

Final Call for Enrollment | April 2024 Courses Hello This is Neil Kendrick from ELD Training. Just to let you know that enrollment for the following courses will close in just 4 days. PROJECT…

RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT & M&E TRAINING 10/04/2024

ADAPTING THE LOGICAL FRAMEWORK APPROACH TO DIFFERENT CONTEXTS
The process of creating a logical framework (often referred to as a Log Frame) is a crucial aspect of project planning and evaluation in various contexts, including relief and humanitarian work.
However, while the steps stay consistent across contexts, the urgency and specific focus differ significantly in relief and humanitarian work. Adaptability and responsiveness are key in these dynamic environments.
Let’s explore how these steps differ, with some examples.
CONTEXT ANALYSIS
This is the initial scanning of the project environment, and, in a general context, aims to understand the broader dynamics in which the project will operate. Here we consider political, social, economic, and environmental factors and identify existing challenges, risks, and opportunities.
In a relief context, however, context analysis involves assessing the emergency. Factors like conflict, natural disasters, displacement, and vulnerable populations are critical. For example, after a devastating earthquake, a relief organization assesses the affected region’s infrastructure, health services, and access to resources.
PROBLEM ANALYSIS
With a general Problem Analysis, we define the specific problem or need that the project aims to address. Next, we examine the root causes and contributing factors and consider the impact on beneficiaries.
In relief/humanitarian and humanitarian work, Problem Analysis the problem often involves immediate survival needs (e.g., food, shelter, medical care). Rapid assessments help identify urgent gaps. For example, a refugee camp lacks clean water sources, leading to health risks and dehydration.
STAKEHOLDER ANALYSIS
A general Stakeholder Analysis will identify and engage relevant stakeholders to understand their interests, influence, and roles. It will consider both internal and external stakeholders. The aim to gain support – or neutralize the resistance – of all people and groups who may be affected by / could affect the project over a sustained period – without compromising the project’s resources.
In humanitarian contexts, stakeholders include local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and donors. Collaboration is crucial for effective relief efforts. For example, a relief project targeting malnutrition involves coordination with local health authorities, community leaders, and nutrition experts. The aim here is to reach agreement as quickly as possible to reduce loss of life and suffering, and to prevent any escalation of the situation.
GOAL/OBJECTIVE SETTING
In development projects, we define the overarching goal (long-term impact) and specific objectives (short-to-medium term outcomes), ensuring they align with the problem analysis and align with community needs.
In a relief/humanitarian context, goals focus on saving lives, reducing suffering, and protecting vulnerable populations. Objectives may include providing emergency food aid, setting up medical clinics, or ensuring safe shelter. For example, if the goal is to reduce child mortality in an emergency, the objective may be to provide timely medical care to malnourished children.
Indicators and Results in development may differ, too. In sustained efforts such as community development, objectives are achieved over an extended time, and we track progress towards results at regular intervals to steer the project.
Relief/humanitarian Indicators and Results may be much more direct and immediate. Indicators may include number of meals distributed, health screenings conducted, or shelter kits provided. Results focus on immediate relief impact (e.g., lives saved, disease prevention). An example indicator could be the number of displaced families with access to safe shelters, resulting on reduced exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Remember that while the steps remain consistent across contexts, the urgency and specific focus differ significantly in relief and humanitarian work. Adaptability and responsiveness are key in these dynamic environments.
Both relief/humanitarian workers and development professionals can benefit from a solid understanding of the Logical Framework Approach and Results-Based Management. While those working in relief may speed up the steps and have a focus on more immediate delivery of essential aid, interventions still need to be planned and consider each of the steps – however rapidly. And for more sustained humanitarian and development work, thorough analysis and planning are essential to keep projects on track over longer periods.
Join us to learn more about LFA, project planning and RBM.

RESULTS-BASED MANAGEMENT & M&E TRAINING DESIGN, MONITOR & EVALUATE PROJECTS THAT GET RESULTS

Videos (show all)

NEW FREE COURSE FOR AUGUSTSTAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT IN RELIEF, HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT CONTEXTSEffectiv...
Part 4 of our series on Stakeholder Management and Engagement looks at how to communicate with our stakeholders.
Win-Win Strategies in Stakeholder ManagementHow do we manage our stakeholders effectively without negatively impacting t...
Learn the steps of Stakeholder Analysis for your results-based projects in under 10 minutes
What is Stakeholder Analysis? And why does it matter?Understanding our stakeholders is essential to achieving project re...

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