> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://urd.gitbook.io/compass/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://urd.gitbook.io/compass/implementing/design.md).

# Design

### <mark style="color:orange;">Why?</mark>

During the design phase, a relevant project strategy is developed, relying on quality information gathered during the Initial Assessment. This information should be relevant and inclusive, as it influences the quality of implementation activities. The project design is a collaborative process aimed at achieving positive outcomes, such as strengthening resilience for target groups, while minimising risks of harm.

### <mark style="color:orange;">When?</mark>

The design is the third phase in the project cycle. It starts when the organisation makes the decision to intervene and ends when financial resources are confirmed for the proposed project.

### <mark style="color:orange;">What?</mark>

The design phase involves

a) developing an operational strategy that responds to identified needs, capacities and priorities&#x20;

b) designing the monitoring system to support learning, accountability and adaptive management throughout implementation.

During this phase, it is important to define expected results, approaches, resources and accountability mechanisms that not only respond to the needs of affected people but also ensure coherence with already established coordination mechanisms.

<figure><img src="https://703690093-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FjVZ7GutuuOfKVB2ccnej%2Fuploads%2F8IdnhYPn0W5FyYZYdrSx%2FDesign_Graph.png?alt=media&amp;token=205cafa2-0d64-42d1-bcc0-b6c7ba38e08d" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### <mark style="color:orange;">Q\&A control points?</mark>

3\. Design - The proposed project intervention

### <mark style="color:orange;">Who?</mark>

* Communities and people affected by crisis should be involved in the definition of the project strategy. This will make the project more relevant as it takes into account multiple factors such as potential risks and barriers to access.
* Operational staff and potential partners should be involved in the definition of project strategy, the confirmation of logistics, human and financial resources required, and the submission of a funding application according to available financial resources.
* Support services (logistics, technical, HR…) should be involved in order to: share examples of projects and good practices in similar contexts; define the project strategy; design an initial MEAL framework; and analyse the resources required to implement the project.
* Donors should be involved to identify potential funding mechanisms, provide guidance, and select project proposals.

### <mark style="color:blue;">Checklist</mark>

You can download the checklist for Implementation - Design in PDF version, available in English, French and Spanish.

{% file src="/files/dFNaCmHVzo9uGZ1JfTDw" %}

{% file src="/files/2saQC8kOBuGmz5FIwctK" %}

{% file src="/files/HwKbRUJWRVEUSkdQjyoL" %}

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### <mark style="color:$primary;">Good practices for the Design phase by CHS commitments</mark>

#### People and communities affected by crisis

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### 1. Can exercise their rights and participate in actions and decisions that affect them

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Involve communities and people affected by crisis in the closure review, evaluations, and handover. &#x20;
* Make sure that all groups of stakeholders are informed about the achievements and the termination of the project.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### 2. Access timely and effective support in accordance with their specific needs

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Evaluate the extent to which the project addressed the affected communities’ needs and generated positive changes for them.
* If need be, refer all needs not covered to relevant organisations or advocate for them to be covered.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### 3. Are better prepared and more resilient to potential crises

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Finalise the exit strategy that was planned to ensure long term positive effects or justify any changes.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### 4. Access support that does not cause harm to people or the environment

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Make sure environmental impacts have been properly managed/mitigated.
* Store data properly in safe spaces. Any paper documents containing sensitive data should be equally secured or destroyed if necessary, and when possible.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### 5. Can safely report concerns and complaints and get them addressed

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Make sure all feedback and complaints have been addressed managed before the closure of the project.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### 6. Access coordinated and complementary support

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Share final project information with other organisations intervening in the same area.
* Ensure the effectiveness of activity transfers and their continuity in response to the needs and expectations of communities
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### 7. Access support that is continually adapted and improved based on feedback and learning

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Identify, formalize and disseminate the main lessons learnt from this experience and any innovations, including community feedback.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### 8. Interact with staff and volunteer that are respectful, competent and well-managed.

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Anticipate the end of human resources contracts and facilitate staff transition.

<mark style="color:$success;">Ideal</mark>

* Organise an internal team event to promote team achievements.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### 9. Can expect resources are managed ethically and responsibly.

<mark style="color:$danger;">Essential</mark>

* Provide the necessary financial, time and logistical resources for the closure of the project.
* Make sure that project resources (especially real estate and equipment) are used by relevant partners or stakeholders after project completion.
* Share key information and lessons learnt with the relevant partners and through the appropriate communication channels.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}