Step 1: How to start and raise interest. (KEY POINTS)

We have been using SoC in Practical Action for many years now, and despite the fact that we are not using them properly (see summary of 2003 Evaluation), we can assume that project managers are already managing to raise the interest of several people in telling their stories. However, it is always good to take some advice into account (from Davies and Dart 2005, pages 15-17)

• 'If you want to raise interest in MSC, you need to be clear about the purpose of MSC and the role it will play in your organisation'.

So, what is the purpose of SoC and MSC for the Markets and Livelihoods Programme?

I think it is a good way to open the team to the voices of other market actors (especially marginalised producers) AND to become more responsive during the implementation of our projects.

And what is the role that SoC/MSC will play in the organisation?

I think it will become one of our most powerful tools to learn and communcate with market actors (especially marginalised producers).

• 'Another really important lesson we have learned from experience is to start small'.

We will start small and step by step. One market system at a time in each of the countries where IA2 works.

PROPOSED QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION:

• Do you think you will have problems to raise the interest of marginalised producers to tell you their stories? Why?