Improving Scaling Performance in Research for Development: Learning from a Realist Evaluation of the Scaling Readiness Approach

Complexity-sensitive decision support approaches (CSDSA) have gained prominence in the research for development (R4D) sector. However, limited attention has been given to critically examining the underlying causal assumptions of CSDSAs and their overall effectiveness in navigating complexity and ach...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:European journal of development research 2023-12, Vol.35 (6), p.1392-1418
Main Authors: Damtew, Elias, Douthwaite, Boru, Schut, Marc, Sartas, Murat, Leeuwis, Cees
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Decision making
Development and Social Change
Development Economics
Development Policy
Development Studies
Innovations
Intervention
Learning
Original Article
Partnerships
Performance management
Social Sciences
Sustainable development
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Summary:Complexity-sensitive decision support approaches (CSDSA) have gained prominence in the research for development (R4D) sector. However, limited attention has been given to critically examining the underlying causal assumptions of CSDSAs and their overall effectiveness in navigating complexity and achieving desired outcomes. Scaling Readiness has emerged as a novel CSDSA that is increasingly applied in R4D programs in low- and middle-income countries to improve the scaling of innovation. This study offers theory-based explanations on the extent to which Scaling Readiness supports evidence-based design, implementation and monitoring of scaling strategies in two R4D interventions. The contribution of Scaling Readiness is influenced by various contextual factors, including pre-existing partnerships and established institutional intervention project and performance management practices. The findings underscore the significance of investing in broader institutional impact culture growth. This includes critical evaluation of how funding, incentive, and performance mechanisms enable or constrain evidence-based decision-making and adaptive management at intervention and organizational level towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
ISSN:0957-8811
1743-9728
DOI:10.1057/s41287-023-00586-w