Tool 18

TOOL 18. MUS VISIONING

To develop a precise and shared description of how a group of stakeholders would like multiple-use water services to be at some future time.

The visioning process provides an excellent means of promoting dialogue between stakeholders involved in different aspects of multiple-use water services. It can help break down any inhibitions or deep-seated antagonisms that might exist. It is also notable that stakeholders often get considerable pleasure and a strong sense of achievement from a well facilitated visioning process.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a precise and shared description of how a group of stakeholders would like multiple-use water services to be at some future time.

METHOD

Generic steps that can be used for developing a common MUS vision are:

Step 1: Reach agreement on the timeframe for which the visioning is to take place.

Step 2: Identify the main issues related to multiple-use water services that are to be included in the vision. Issues can be identified and grouped using a combination of techniques that include problem tree analysis and brainstorming, using cards and/or a check list provided by the facilitators.

Step 3: Develop an outline MUS vision over the agreed timeframe. The vision is best described using a concise mixture of descriptive narrative and numerical targets. Stakeholders should also be asked to use the acronym SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound) as a checklist of attributes for a well-written MUS vision, and to help avoid the vision becoming nothing more than a ’wish list’.

Step 4: Check that the draft MUS vision is consistent with visions at higher or lower spatial or administrative scales and check that the draft MUS vision is broadly consistent with government policy. If not, it may be necessary to make modifications.

Step 5: Disseminate the MUS vision widely within the area of interest. Elicit comments and feedback. Finalise the MUS vision by taking account of constructive comments.

TIPS AND TRICKS

  • Ensure that all relevant stakeholders are adequately represented in the process.
  • After strategy development has been completed (see Tool 19), assess whether or not any of the strategies have the potential to achieve the vision within the agreed time horizon. If not, revise the vision.
  • Visioning at community level can also be done by developing a community map of the ‘Village of our dreams‘. See Tool 7.

BASED ON

Moriarty, P. et al., 2007. The EMPOWERS Approach to Water Governance: Guidelines, Methods and Tools. Amman: INWRDAM.