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
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.
