Results – Instrument analysis matrix
A fourth instrument is an analysis matrix for evaluating the scaling-up potential of good practices. The
Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape and Land Use Research (ZALF) devised this semi-quantitative analysis and
evaluation matrix on the basis of the self-evaluations. To develop the matrix, a broad range of factors was identified
which might influence the success of a scaling up process. These factors were subdivided into six categories:
Category 1: Features of good agricultural practices (GAPs)
The definitive criterion for scaling up of good practices is their cost-benefit ratio and their poverty-reducing
impact. Beyond this, the extent to which good practices are adapted to local social, cultural, environmental and
economic conditions is of crucial importance.
Successful scaling up also requires the technical application of a good practice to be straightforward and allow
the possibility of low-cost "trial" applications. The practice must be highly flexible when transferred to a
different context.
Category 2: Characteristics of the implementing organisations
It is a prerequisite for broad-scale dissemination of good agricultural practices that the implementing organisations
have sound professional knowledge of the project. Equally they must possess good local agriculture skills and engage in
effective networking with partner organisations. A relationship of mutual trust must be built up between the partners,
and all parties must be actively involved in the process.
Category 3: Interest and capacity of the target group
Any successful scaling up of good practices hinges on the farmers' receptiveness to innovation. The farmers who are
most willing to adopt new practices have proved to be those with the greatest need to improve their living conditions in
the wake of some kind of crisis.
Category 4: Political and institutional framework conditions
The scaling up of good agricultural practices depends greatly on the level of political will at national and at local
level. It is important that support given through political channels is precisely targeted to meet the needs of smallholders.
The legal framework conditions also have a strong influence. For example, laws on access to land and water or subsidy
policies may be a help or, in some cases, a definite hindrance to the scaling up of good practices. At local level,
local governments and stakeholder groups can exert considerable influence over the rapid scaling up of good practices.
Category 5: Economic framework conditions
Alongside the political framework conditions, the successful scaling up of good practices also depends critically on the
economic framework conditions. Relevant factors include a well-developed infrastructure, effective access to markets, and
the involvement of private-sector entrepreneurs.
Category 6: Management of the scaling-up process: planning, dissemination and sustainability
A scaling up strategy for good agricultural practices calls for detailed, timely and flexible planning and monitoring.
For instance, the target group must be properly defined, and the right means of communication chosen to educate and inform
them about the new practices. The scaling up of information must be adapted to local conditions. During the planning
of broad-scale dissemination of good practices, it is important to have mapped out the financial framework and for the
partners to have agreed on the participatory structures for decision-making.
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