CD for AIS Cycle

A cycle of five stages is proposed for the operationalization of CD interventions at the level of an innovation niche, within organizations and networks (and individuals within these) and addressing the enabling environment. The CD for AIS Cycle aims to stimulate learning and interaction among the three dimensions of CD to develop an effective AIS that is capable of adapting and responding to new and emerging challenges. The CD for AIS Cycle should not be viewed as a one-off, closed process with a clear start and finish. It represents just one cycle in a continuum or spiral of action, reflection, learning, adaptation and implementation of the CD process.

Stage 1: Galvanizing Commitment

In order to advance and strengthen CD for AIS it is important to ensure both a common understanding of the process as well as to create ownership and high-level support by those that head and lead representative bodies of actors within the system. Effort and conviction are needed to secure the commitment of relevant stakeholders at system level and ensure that they all understand what the dual pathways to CD for AIS involves.

CD Tools for this stage include:

• Network Analysis
• Scoping Study
• Timeline

Stage 2: Visioning

A visioning process brings together the representatives of actor groups within the AIS to build on the common understanding of AIS and the need for a coordinated approach to CD of actors within the system. This is a process to further ensure high level commitment and to determine further actions and relevant responsibilities.

CD Tools for this stage include:

• Network Analysis
• Rich Picture
• SWOT Analysis
• Timeline
• World Cafè

Stage 3: Capacity Needs Assessment

The Assessment aims to ascertain the level of technical and functional capacity, and in particular the capacity to adapt and respond in the various dimensions. The CNA focuses on selected organizations and institutions that are catalytic for system development or are linked to innovation niches or to the wider systems CD process.

CD Tools for this stage include:

• Action planning
• Network Analysis
• Problem tree
• Rich picture
• Scoring questionnaire
• Simulation game
• Timeline

Stage 4: CD Strategy Development and Action Plan

The leadership team of the CD project (possibly with the active involvement of other actors) will decide on goals, objectives, priorities and options for a systems-wide CD strategy. Options for CD interventions will depend on the country context, ongoing programmes and funding opportunities.

CD Tools for this stage include:

• Action planning
• CD Menu
• Outcome Mapping

Stage 5: Implementation

Implementation of the plan will fall to those individuals or organizations who have taken on the responsibility for a certain activity. The process leadership group should maintain a coordinating role throughout the implementation phase.

CD Tools for this stage include:

• Timeline
• Outcome Mapping