Approach and methodology
Three principles guide every IMACON engagement: evidence-based rigour anchored in OECD-DAC, methodological depth grounded in our own published frameworks, and ethical AI use that accelerates the work without ever interpreting it.
Evidence first
Every recommendation in our reports is traceable to triangulated evidence — KIIs, focus groups, surveys, document review, secondary statistics — coded and analysed using contribution analysis. We do not deliver opinions; we deliver findings.
Methodology depth
We are practitioners who have written the textbooks. Six methodological books with ISBN: IMACON Model (project appraisal), Organisational Viability Toolkit (OD), Logical Framework Approach guide (PCM), Just Enough Planning Guide (campaigns), Creating Change Through OD (translated and edited), NORAD Planning Guide (Belarusian translation). Free PDFs available in the Publications section.
AI ethics
We use AI tools — locally-run language models for transcription and qualitative coding acceleration. We do not use commercial APIs that send client data to third parties. We do not allow AI to generate findings, conclusions or recommendations. AI is a multiplier of senior-evaluator productivity; it is not a substitute for senior judgment. This complies with EU GDPR and current OECD ethical principles for AI in public-sector contexts.
Cross-pollination
We deliberately move methodology between sectors and regions. Insights from a UNIDO industrial-development project in Kyrgyzstan informed a Caritas faith-based programme in Albania. OD frameworks built for environmental CSOs were adapted for media organisations. This is what bridge consultancy means in practice — refusing to let domain silos limit what we bring to a problem.