OUR RESEARCH PROCESS

1. Identify

We work with partners to identify pressing development challenges and promising interventions to address them.

2. Design

Our research team designs rigorous randomized evaluations and other studies to test program effectiveness.

3. Evaluate

We implement evaluations with strict scientific standards, measuring program impact and cost-effectiveness.

4. Disseminate

We translate findings into accessible formats and share lessons with policymakers and practitioners.

5. Scale

We support partners in adapting and scaling proven interventions to reach more people.

6. Learn

We continuously refine programs based on evidence, ensuring ongoing improvement and adaptation.

SECTOR EXPERTISE

We work across development sectors to generate evidence and drive impact

Education

Improving learning outcomes, increasing school attendance, and enhancing education quality through evidence-based interventions. We test pedagogical approaches, teacher training programs, and educational technology solutions.

Health

Increasing healthcare access, improving health behaviors, and strengthening health systems. Our work spans maternal health, infectious disease prevention, mental health, and healthcare financing.

Financial Inclusion

Testing innovative financial products and services for the poor, including microfinance, mobile money, savings programs, and insurance schemes designed for low-income populations.

Agriculture

Enhancing agricultural productivity and farmer incomes through improved farming techniques, market linkages, climate adaptation strategies, and agricultural technology adoption.

Economic Opportunities

Creating sustainable livelihoods through entrepreneurship support, job training, graduation programs, and interventions to boost small business growth and employment.

Governance

Strengthening institutions, improving public service delivery, enhancing accountability, and testing interventions to reduce corruption and increase citizen engagement.

Environment & Climate

Addressing climate change impacts, promoting sustainable resource management, and testing interventions for environmental conservation and climate adaptation.

Social Protection

Evaluating cash transfer programs, safety nets, and social insurance schemes designed to protect vulnerable populations and reduce poverty.

RESEARCH METHODS

Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

The gold standard for measuring program impact. We randomly assign participants to treatment and control groups to isolate program effects.

Quasi-Experimental Methods

When randomization isn't feasible, we use alternative rigorous methods like difference-in-differences and regression discontinuity designs.

Qualitative Research

In-depth interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic studies provide context and understanding of how and why programs work.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

We measure not just impact but also cost-effectiveness, helping policymakers allocate resources efficiently.

Implementation Research

We study the practical challenges of program delivery, identifying best practices for successful implementation at scale.

Long-term Follow-up

Many of our studies track outcomes over years to understand program sustainability and long-term impacts.

PARTNER ON RESEARCH

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