Collaborating, Learning, and Adapting (CLA)

Collaborating, Learning, and Adapting (CLA) is a set of practices that helps us improve our development effectiveness. Learning has always been a part of USAID's work, and most USAID missions and implementing partners already are practicing CLA in some way. Our aim now is to make CLA more systematic and intentional throughout the Program Cycle and to dedicate the resources necessary to make it happen. According to USAID's Program Cycle guidance (ADS 201.3.5.19), "Strategic collaboration, continuous learning, and adaptive management link together all components of the Program Cycle." Integrating CLA into our work helps to ensure that our programs are coordinated with others, grounded in a strong evidence base, and iteratively adapted to remain relevant throughout implementation. The systematic application of CLA approaches, led by people who have the knowledge and resources to carry them out, enables USAID to be an effective learning organization and thereby a more effective development organization. (n.p). Go to the website to learn more about CLA.