Implementing a Project

How an organization launches and implements any kind of project depends on its own resources, capacities, internal procedures, and often donor requirements with which it needs to comply. However, implementation should always begin with a planning phase during which the organization coordinates the necessary resources and structures to ensure a smooth project launch and the effective implementation of activities. This planning includes finalizing core project documents, such as a workplan and budget, or completing key operational steps, such as hiring the necessary staff and setting up office space for them.

Implementation Tips

Would you like to learn more about project management and project implementation?

Check out NGOConnect, an online platform maintained under FHI 360's Strengthening Civil Society Globally program to share resources and knowledge among the global CSO community. The platform includes resources on project management, financial management, governance, human resources, monitoring and evaluation, inclusive development, and more.

Implementation steps for P/CVE projects have requirements similar to those for projects in other sectors. However, given the sensitivity and nature of this programming, the preparation and launch phase might be more intensive and time-consuming than for other types of projects. For example, a P/CVE project might require a more in-depth risk assessment and more time and effort to develop your stakeholder outreach and communication plan, given the sensitivity of the activities in some communities.

As you prepare to implement your P/CVE project, consider the following steps:

  • Conduct a capacity assessment (of your organization, team, and/or partners) to determine gaps or needs to address during implementation. More information on self-assessments of organizational capacity is included on the Sustainability page.
  • Develop a workplan in order to organize and plan activities throughout the life of the project. Once the initial draft of the workplan is ready, you can organize a validation session to present the workplan and proposed activities to partners and/or beneficiaries to get their buy-in.
  • Develop or finalize the first version of implementation guidance documents, most of which would be started during the Assess and Design phases. These documents could include the following (see the corresponding Cross-Cutting Section for additional information):
  • Finalize the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning plan.
  • Finalize the project’s management plan to ensure the effective coordination of tasks and delivery of results according to the workplan.

 

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Adaptive Management

Research and FHI 360’s own project implementation experience highlight the importance of applying an adaptive management approach, rather than conventional management approaches that organizations typically use. Adaptive management involves monitoring, learning, and gathering feedback during project implementation. More importantly, the approach includes making adjustments in response to this learning. The Learn Module provides more information on adaptive management frameworks and learning and adaptation for P/CVE projects.