Steps for Designing a Results-Focused Capacity Development Strategy
A Primer for Development Practitioners Based on the Capacity Development and Results Framework
Results-focused capacity development is a strategic and country-led approach that emphasizes the use of knowledge and learning in empowering local agents to advance change. It extends beyond individuals and organizations to collective action across society in strengthening institutional capacity in support of the development goal. Designing a capacity development strategy is a key element of results-focused capacity development. A country capacity development strategy may include:
- A country development goal validated by stakeholders
- An identification of the problem, in terms of institutional capacities and priority characteristics that impede or enable reform
- A change strategy with change processes that can be supported by action planning and stakeholder initiatives
- A results framework with monitoring and evaluation (M&E) arrangements.
In this guide WBI presents operational steps to help a project leader or task team facilitate stakeholders in designing a capacity development strategy. The guide is based on extensive discussions and collaborative initiatives with country partners. Country stakeholders can follow a systematic process, from identifying problems and designing strategy, to implementing plans and monitoring and evaluating change.