ABCD-Training-of-Trainers-Tools-July-2013

2.1. Introduction: ABCD Process
(Source: the Coady International Institute)
Introduction
The principle behind an ABCD approach is that when communities recognize their assets and
opportunities, they are more likely to be motivated to take initiative to mobilize and strengthen their
asset base. Guided by this principle, the facilitator has to decide which combination of tools and
methods are appropriate for helping communities to organize themselves to identify, link, and mobilize
their assets. There is no blueprint for designing ABCD training programs. Some facilitators prefer to
spend more time on paradigm shifting and others on practical tools that people can use at the
community level to identify strengths and assets and stimulate action. The balance is ultimately up to
the facilitator but remember: if you spend too much time on paradigm shifting, people leave the training
feeling like they “get it” but find it hard to practically integrate ABCD into their work and to convey to
others what ABCD actually “is”. On the other hand, if you spend too much time on tools, then people
leave the training without the intended mindset shift.
Throughout the process, the facilitator has to bear in mind that mapping assets is as much about
organizing as it is about discovery.
An ABCD methodology usually begins slowly. It takes time to build relationships with community
members and conduct basic background research. Appreciative interviewing techniques can then be
used to set the tone for an asset-based approach. Through story-telling, appreciative interviewing
highlights past successes in the community that people can build on. Usually, a group of interested
people is motivated by this process to explore an asset-based approach further.
The facilitator can then assist with planning a series of inventories or asset-mapping exercises that the
group can conduct. This mapping process identifies:
• the various informal and formal associations in the community;
• the skills, talents and capacities of individuals;
• the assets of local institutions; and,
• the physical assets and natural resources the community can draw on.
The results of the inventories and mapping exercises are brought back to the larger community where
some community economic analysis and visioning takes place. The facilitator helps the community
access external resources to consolidate the gains from the community’s own activities. Ideally, the
process results in the formation of a community foundation or structure (such as an association of
associations) that can sustain this community-driven process.
Throughout the process, the facilitator has to bear in mind that mapping assets is as much about
organizing as it is about discovery.
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