NGO competency-based framework for the delivery of post-disaster reconstruction projects

With the expected increase in the magnitude and frequency of natural disasters in coming years, more people than ever will be faced with post-disaster reconstruction (PDR) scenarios. Within a complex and turbulent environment it is essential that responding agencies deploy appropriate configurations of competencies to mitigate project barriers that arise. The objectives of this research are a) to examine how theory from disaster management, strategic management and project management can be integrated to develop a theoretical framework for the delivery of PDR projects, b) to investigate current practices of NGOs in delivery of PDR projects, c) to identify appropriate competencies to be deployed by NGOs, including the various configurations that will lead to successful PDR projects and d) to develop a competence-based framework derived from a system dynamics model that will lead to more efficient and effective projects in PDR. Within a mixed-methods approach, the study incorporates 4 case studies in post-tsunami Sri Lanka and 4 case studies in post-cyclone Sidr Bangladesh. Exploratory interviews with expert NGO participants are combined with direct observations, with the resultant data analysed in Decision Explorer. An embedded quantitative element within the case studies allows values to be assigned to a system dynamics model, with mechanisms emerging that contribute to the final theoretical model. The study reveals that NGOs face numerous barriers; organisational, political, economic, ethical, community, professional and environmental. In order to effectively develop and implement strategies to address these barriers, organisations must deploy certain configurations of organisational and operational competencies. These competencies have been categorised into the following clusters: leadership, communication/presentation, creative drive, technical, co-operation, analysis/judgement, organization, adaptation. The theoretical framework and system dynamics model demonstrate how the utilisation of these competencies, deployed in targeted clusters, has the potential to create positive outcomes for beneficiaries as measured by PDR Project Success Indicators (PDRPSls).