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Creating the Missing Feedback Loop

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  • Alex Jacobs

Abstract

This article describes how agricultural development agencies can implement feedback systems to hear systematically from the intended beneficiaries of their work. Feedback systems relate to debates on reforming accountability, participatory monitoring and evaluation and social accountability. Based on reasoning and the best available evidence, the article argues that in most projects, quantified summaries of smallholder farmers’ views can be collected. The data can provide real‐time performance indicators which create incentives for staff to focus on the priorities of intended beneficiaries. If acted on, this can improve impact and sustainability. Feedback processes can also be inherently empowering. Leading examples are discussed as are three major challenges: ethical issues, practical issues and management incentives. The article concludes that feedback systems can create an organisational link between participatory processes and management systems. As such, they can make a substantial contribution to improving performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Alex Jacobs, 2010. "Creating the Missing Feedback Loop," IDS Bulletin, Blackwell Publishing, vol. 41(6), pages 56-64, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:idsxxx:v:41:y:2010:i:6:p:56-64
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1111/idsb.2010.41.issue-6
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    Cited by:

    1. Kingston, Kylie L. & Furneaux, Craig & de Zwaan, Laura & Alderman, Lyn, 2023. "Avoiding the accountability ‘sham-ritual’: An agonistic approach to beneficiaries’ participation in evaluation within nonprofit organisations," CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES ON ACCOUNTING, Elsevier, vol. 92(C).
    2. Biradavolu, Monica R. & Blankenship, Kim M. & George, Annie & Dhungana, Nimesh, 2015. "Unintended Consequences of Community-Based Monitoring Systems: Lessons from an HIV Prevention Intervention for Sex Workers in South India," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 67(C), pages 1-10.
    3. David William Walker, 2016. "How Systemic Inquiry Releases Citizen Knowledge to Reform Schools: Community Scorecard Case Studies," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 29(4), pages 313-334, August.

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