In this step, you will: Define what is being valued and establish CBWM program objectives, inputs, structure and activities.
| Resources required | Staff capacity for desktop research and review.Interviews and workshops with directors, program managers, coordinators, supporters, and volunteers, both past and present. Information regarding program costs. |
| Expected outcomes | List of inputs – activities and costs, articulated objectives. |
| Tools | Defining inputs (Tool 2a) Activity cost analysis (Tool 2b) CBWM self-evaluation checklist |
Process
1. Defining inputs (Tool 2a)
Describe the CBWM program or activity you have defined in your scope (Tool 1a). What does your program do, and why is it being done? When building a Case for Investment in your community-based water monitoring (CBWM) program, it’s essential to clearly articulate what you’re evaluating. Detail the activities and objectives of your CBWM efforts, including what your program does and why it matters. This should cover the full range of activities, from initial setup (equipment purchases, staff hiring, training) to ongoing operations (sample collection, data analysis, and outreach). Understanding the purpose behind these activities—whether it’s to assess water health, the impact of road salts, or the effects of specific environmental events like forest fires—sets the stage for a comprehensive evaluation.
2. Activity cost analysis (Tool 2b)
To fully understand the scope and impact of your monitoring program, it is crucial to outline the associated costs. This breakdown should include equipment procurement, staff salaries, technology investments, data analysis tools, and ongoing maintenance. A detailed and realistic estimate of these expenditures should be provided, considering both initial setup costs and recurring expenditures to reflect the full financial needs of the program. A comprehensive cost outline demonstrates a thorough understanding of the program’s financial needs and facilitates informed decision-making regarding budget allocation and resource management. It accurately reflects the investment required to implement and sustain the water monitoring program, ensuring stakeholders comprehend the financial commitments necessary to achieve your outlined goals.
Questions to consider
What activities do you perform, and what is their initial, yearly, and/or seasonal cost?
Who is funding the work, and who is responsible for spending (implementation)?
By explicitly defining your CBWM program’s objectives, activities, and costs, we can demonstrate the tangible and intangible returns on investment. This part of the evaluation will illustrate your program’s scope and impact and provide a transparent overview of the financial resources used or needed for its implementation, laying the groundwork for a thoughtful and thorough assessment in the later worksheets. Describing your CBWM in this way ensures that everyone fully understands the commitment required to achieve the program’s goals.