Feasibility & Needs Assessments
Humanitarian Impact Institute field research, Sudan.
Feasibility Studies
BMZ Feasibility Studies
HII’s Evidence Unit partners with implementing organisations to conduct robust and supportive Feasibility Studies for the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation (BMZ).
BMZ require all project proposals co-financed by BMZ to be submitted alongside a supportive Feasibility Study. HII delivers the feasibility study.
Purpose
The purpose of the BMZ Feasibility Study is to independently validate the logic, needs and context of the project.
In our experience, BMZ appreciates feasibility studies that appear designed to help implementers finalise the project design. As a result we focus on co-designing the study methodology, findings and recommendations with the implementing partner to ensure they are accurate – while still maintaining independence and ensuring findings are evidence-based.
To do this, the BMZ Feasibility Study needs to clarify uncertain aspects of the project context, have clearly identified opportunities and make project risks clear.
Ultimately BMZ then appreciates seeing these items from the study incorporated and addressed in the final proposal submitted.
If a BMZ Feasibility Study is conducted well it will provide an additional perspective on how to improve the project design, and ultimately increase the impact for the targeted community.
Approach to BMZ Feasibility Studies
All of HII’s work is inclusive, participatory and community validated by design. This is not special for us, it is the minimum requirement.
BMZ Feasibility Studies are conducted using OECD DAC Criteria as the analytical framework.
HII’s research capability has deep experience collecting quantitative and qualitiative primary data in developing, fragile and conflict affected countries.
Our research technology platforms and systems allow us to collect primary data from the field quickly and deliver publications efficiently. Our researchers are well trained mixed methods researchers and are experienced in advanced sampling, data quality management, statistical analysis and data normalisation.
Humanitarian Needs Assessments
HII conducts needs assessments in humanitarian settings and responses. These Assessments support our clients to design program interventions that best meet the needs of the affected populations.
HII’s needs assessments are designed to community-driven. This means communities participating in all stages of the Needs Assessment including the design and the validation of findings and recommendations.
HII uses a range of methodologies for needs assessments such as health and nutrition, economic and hygiene analytical tools. HII will recommend the most appropriate tools based on the context and the expertise of the implementing partners.
Mar Echevarria Zamora
Mar is a Research Officer at HII specialising in gender, diversity and inclusion and advises on Needs Assessments and Feasibility Studies across all of HII’s practices.
© Humanitarian Impact Institute, Ireland