The increasing importance of local-level planning in developing countries and disillusionment with highly theoretical, sophisticated methodologies have prompted the creation of this simple-to-use manual for planners and administrators seeking to identify, evaluate, and select local-level development projects. This book outlines information required for thorough project evaluation, sources of that information (including alternative approaches to data collection), methods of analysis (with detailed explanations of their strengths and weaknesses), and techniques for organizing the results for purposes of decision making. Unlike many abstract procedural guides for development that require substantial data and technical manpower --two resources usually unavailable at local levels?€”this book is meant for planners and administrators who have had little or no formal training in project analysis and planning. Mr. Mathur supplements his step-by-step methodology with explanations of how and when to make appropriate and effective use of the techniques.

Om Prakash Mathur is director of the National Institute of Urban Affairs, New Delhi, and a former staff member of the United Nations Centre for Regional Development.