Conceptual Framework for Institutional Capacity-Building

Health Systems 20/20 has developed a conceptual framework to guide its institutional capacity-building activities. The project aims to develop the capacity of regional and local institutions to provide technical assistance and training to developing countries in health systems strengthening. These institutions typically include universities (e.g. schools of public health or research institutes), consulting firms, NGOs, regional networks and alliances, and government agencies.

Health Systems 20/20 has identified six core competencies that are essential to developing self-sustaining institutions. These competencies are depicted in the graphic below. To access the full conceptual framework including a detailed description of each competency, please click here.

These competencies apply to the full range of institutions that Health Systems 20/20 aims to strengthen although some competencies are more relevant for one type of institution than for another. They can be used as the basis for an assessment of institutional strengths and weaknesses, development of an intervention plan to address the areas needing improvement, design of a workshop on institutional capacity-building, or evaluation of the success of an organizational improvement effort. The basic premise is that technical competence, while a starting point in many organizations, is not sufficient on its own to create a self-sustaining and successful organization.