INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS DVM 3160 Mid-term written assignment

Reminder This take-home assignment counts for 35% of the final grade. It is to be done individually. You analyze a case study with multiple problems, linked to the course subject matter. Maximum of 10 pages, double-spaced, 12 points, not including cover page, bibliography and any annexes. Only printed copies will be accepted. The title of the case is: NGO Microfinance in the Tibet Autonomous Region (1913.0).

Pick-up and Delivery Pick up a copy of the case at Unicentre’s Copy Centre, Morriset Room #0024 (basement). Cost around $6.95 unless there is a copyright surcharge. Bring the course number and case title. OR order it directly from Harvard U. (see the link on the Virtual Campus). The paper is to be submitted in class on July 9th. University rules: 5% per day (or any part thereof) grade penalty on late submissions (to be handed in at the SIDGS secretariat, TBT 378, and stamped with the day’s date). Do not slide under my office door or the secretariat’s door.

Scenario... You are a paid outside consultant. Your job is to analyze the problems and offer expert, independent advise on how they should go about solving them or at least try to. The case describes actual development and management challenges. You are free to recommend whatever courses of action you deem best, backing them up with solid analysis and justifications, and leaving no important holes in the project or your arguments. Re-read Learning by the Case Method for guidance.

Scenario Recommend courses of action based on your understanding of the issues, what must be taken into account, and what the options are. You can make references to the class presentations, to the readings, and to any other source material that you wish to consult or have previous consulted. Don’t forget to look at the big picture and not simply the project details. What are they trying to do? What is the context? What are the alternatives?

Presentation The cover page should include the course title and number, as well as your name and university id. number, and the date you submitted it. Don’t forget to number the pages and staple them! Run your paper through an electronic dictionary to eliminate typos and spelling mistakes. Sorry but the look is important!

Structuring your answer Take for granted that the reader knows the case. DO NOT REPEAT THE CASE. Introduction: What are the main problems generally, what you intend to provide, and how you will structure/present your paper (i.e. guide the reader). (1/2-1 page) Main section with sub-sections: (8-9 pages) Present your analysis and arguments, what the main problems and threats are, what you propose the organization should do to solve each of these, why and how.

Structuring your answer Take into account the NGO’s mission, challenges, context, constraints, opportunities, and options – those mentioned and/or perhaps others. Break up your paper using section titles and sub- section sub-titles. Structure even your paragraphs. Make sure your sentences and paragraphs are not too long. Conclusion: Convincingly repeat your overall position, mentioning next steps (1/2-1 page).

GOOD LUCK! (Merde!)