Approach
REAL’s mission is to bridge local knowledge, academic expertise, and NGO/private sector needs to develop assessments, studies, and evaluations that get to the heart of information sharing and understanding (both conceptually and practically) in developing socio-economic contexts. We specialise in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environments where linear models of change are often stymied. As a “bridge” REAL approaches projects with the following attributes:
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Employ effective analytical approaches (quantitative, qualitative, and interpretive)
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Rely on a hybrid model we call Designing for Human-Centered Systems (DHCS), which combines elements of design thinking and human-centered design with complexity theory, systems thinking, strategic foresight, futures literacy and cultural intelligence
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Use mixed-methods for data triangulation and analytical quality
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Provide insight into the challenges arising from different development axioms, power dynamics, and presuppositional paradigms
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Create solutions based on a collaborative process that involves all major stakeholders
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Partner with key individuals and/or organizations to leverage expertise and capacity efficiently and effectively
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Deliver quality final products meeting professional standards and expectations
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By building and leveraging critical solidarity and pulling together different viewpoints, REAL is strategically placed to deliver research, evaluation, analysis, and synthesis based on both emic and etic perspectives for a variety of clients.
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