If projects are not based on a good understanding of local conditions, they can have a negative impact on people's safety. Therefore, our design and implementation of responses is always conflict sensitive and based on detailed preliminary assessments of local conditions. By conducting needs assessments and/or conflict analysis before initiating interventions, DDG obtains good understanding of local conditions which enables tailored responses to the specific problems of target communities. Such assessments and analysis are implemented in local communities as well as on an overall national level.

A big part of DDG’s strong reputation for effective intervention lies in our ability to learn from success as well as failure. By carefully monitoring the impact of programme activities a sound basis for evaluation of comparable factors is attained. Thus DDG conducts baseline studies in communities before intervening and impact assessments at the conclusion of a project cycle. Methods used are: Gathering of statistical data through household questionnaires, qualitative analysis based on focus group discussions, key informant interviews and secondary sources of information, such as maps and existing publications from other NGOs and government bodies. By using several different methods of monitoring impact, the chances of reaching the correct conclusions are significantly improved. Statistical data from household questionnaires before and after programme implementation reveals what changes have occurred in the target communities, while analysis of participatory activities, such as focus group discussions, help explain why these changes have come about.

On the right are links for several preliminary assessments and impact monitoring resources from DDG’s AVR programmes in various countries. Among these is a joint DDG and Small Arms Survey publication on the findings from a 2009 nation-wide assessment of community safety and small arms in Somaliland.

For more information about impact monitoring in DDG please refer to the section on impact monitoring.