Networks Field Guide

This field guide is intended for use by program teams to aid in networks-based program design, monitoring, and evaluation.

What is the Networks Field Guide?

The International Republican Institute's (IRI) Networks Field Guide (NFG) is a comprehensive reference guide that uses evidence from an ex-post evaluation series, academic research, and implementer experience to provide guidance on designing, implementing, and evaluating effective networks-based programs. The NFG is divided into four main sections:

How to use the Networks Field Guide?

We recommend starting with this quick start guide that provides more detail on each section and options for exploring to the field guide or this roadmap that provides more detail on specific topics covered in the guide. Otherwise, use the links on the left to jump to a specific section.

Background

This field guide was produced as part of IRI's Evaluating DRG Effectiveness (EDGE) award. Under EDGE, IRI conducted ex-post evaluations of previously completed IRI projects funded by DRL to support evidence-based project design. The first EDGE evaluation series investigated the implementation and results of projects with a theory of change (TOC) intended to create sustainable results, or outcome-level changes that extend past the project lifecycle either among direct participants or through a multiplier effect beyond direct participants. One common TOC intended to create sustainable results is a coordination TOC, wherein participants achieve long-term results by sharing information to coordinate independent actions or explicitly act together. Often, this TOC is implemented through networks. IRI conducted five case studies, in open and closed spaces, to investigate this TOC. This field guide translates the findings of those case studies into evidence-based guidance for designing and implementing network-based programming.

Acknowledgements

This field guide was created by IRI’s Evidence and Learning Practice with guidance from program staff in Mexico, Burma, Laos and others. It is a living document that we will update as more evidence becomes available; please check back periodically for improved guidance. ​