
Background Information Directory
Background Information Directory. What is impact? What are outcomes? Evidence-based best practices? Sustainable development? This section provides background information on these topics and others.
The Center provides proof-tested solutions for challenges faced by development professionals. This site offers a system for Donors and NGOs to use in advancing impact-oriented projects.
We research best practice activities for use in development projects, and package them in easy-to-use field manuals, training guides, and handouts useful in developing and running projects.

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Sustainable Rural Development. Sustainable Rural Development can be defined as: Improving the quality of life for the rural poor by developing capacities that enable community members to leave the cycle of poverty and achieve their full potential. |
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Evidence-Based Best Practices. An Evidence-Based Best Practice has been proved through scientific research to produce a positive outcome. The outcomes of rural development projects produce lessons learned & best practices - but what is considered the Gold Standard is the Evidence Based Best Practice. |
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Step-by-Step Self-Sufficiency. A 12-Step Matrix of the progression of steps to take when starting to work in a community. Activities are organized in a step-by-step, sequential approach. Participation, WatSan, Food, Education, Conservation, Work, Infrastructure, Energy, Migration, Relief, Adaptation. |
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Bridging the Gap. Design and Implement Outcome-Driven Development Projects. Work side-by-side with villagers in the true context of a rural development project: a remote mountain village. Discover the real-life needs of community members and the challenges faced by NGOs. |
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Impact Short Courses provide organizational tools that yield rapid results, are easy to utilize, and quick to implement. These 3-day workshops can be held at your headquarters or in-country office and cover organizational performance, professionalism, project research and managing for impact. |


