Organizing and managing integrated rural development : lessons from field experience

This study is based on the field reports, working papers, and published articles generated from this experience. After a discussion of the linkages between project implementation and benefit sustainability, the roles of organizational structure, management behavior, and technical assistance in delivering IRD goods and services are described. Methods for enhancing local IRD efforts are outlined, such as conducting beneficiary studies, strengthening local institutions, supporting participatory approaches, and encouraging beneficiary action. Constraints on sustainability (financial, organizational, policy-related) and strategies for achieving sustainability (institutional, organizational, technological) are next described. A final section reviews project pitfalls, promising avenues for successful IRD project implementation, and lessons learned from field experience. References follow each chapter.