Services

We provide services in monitoring and evaluation, strategic planning, value chain analysis, stakeholder mapping, research, capacity building, leadership, and policy analysis for public, private, and non-profit organizations.

Over the past 20 years, OCI has developed expertise in various subject matter areas, methodologies, and approaches.

Subject Matter Expertise

OCI has specialized in agricultural value chain analysis, particularly in the West African Context. Our previous work includes seeking market based solutions to increase job creation and productivity in a variety of value chains including:

  • cotton
  • peanut
  • cashew
  • shea butter
  • onion
  • sesame
  • arabic gum 

 

OCI has experience with public and private partners in the area of policy analysis. Our network of professionals includes lawyers from various fields of expertise, as well as public servants to assist us in performing exceptional research and analysis.

Our team has seen that empowering the most vulnerable groups, such as women and youth, is key to development. One of the most significant ways that this can be done is through economic development and creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship. Bonaventure Fandohan, OCI managing partner, has a background as the Area of Focus Manager for Economic and Community Development – bringing key insights into this area. 

Market Systems Development (MSD) is an approach to economic development that focuses on creating and strengthening market systems to increase economic growth, create jobs, and improve livelihoods. This approach differs from traditional development approaches in that it recognizes the importance of markets and the private sector in driving economic growth, rather than relying solely on aid and government interventions. Octopus Consulting and Insight has made Market Systems Development one of its areas of specialization, recognizing its transformative nature and sustainable impacts.

Octopus Consulting and Insight uses a variety of participatory techniques such as focus group discussions, interviews, and surveys to gather input from stakeholders. We also prioritize participation from our partners and regular communications that allows us to produce deliverables that are in complete alignment with the needs of the end user. We believe that the most effective evaluations are completed with consideration and involvement of a variety of stakeholders. 

Types of Assignments

We conduct “Needs Assessments” as systematic process of gathering and analyzing information to identify the gaps between what is and what should be. It is a crucial step in designing and implementing effective interventions, programs, or policies. Needs assessment can be used to identify the needs of individuals, groups, organizations, or communities. It involves collecting data on various aspects such as current practices, resources, and challenges, and using this information to develop recommendations for addressing the identified gaps. Needs assessment is an ongoing process that helps ensure that interventions are tailored to the specific needs of the target population, and that resources are used effectively and efficiently.

Impact or summative evaluation is a type of evaluation that assesses the effectiveness and impact of a program or intervention at a point during the project implementation or at the end. It aims to determine whether the program is achieving or has achieved its intended outcomes and to what extent. Impact evaluation uses a variety of methods such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups to collect data on the program’s outcomes, including changes in knowledge, attitudes, behavior, and other indicators of success. Octopus Consulting and Insight has conducted a number of evaluations using the OECD-DAC criteria.  Impact evaluation is important as it provides information on the effectiveness of programs, helps to identify areas for improvement, and supports decision-making around resource allocation and program continuation.

Value chain analysis is a framework used to examine the various activities involved in the production of goods or services, from the initial inputs to the final output. It is a powerful tool for identifying opportunities for job creation, innovation, and value generation. Value chain analysis involves breaking down the production process into a series of distinct activities, and then examining each activity to identify potential areas for improvement. This can include looking at the sourcing of raw materials, the production process, distribution channels, and marketing activities. 

Our program review services provide a comprehensive and systematic evaluation of your program’s goals, objectives, and outcomes. Our team of experienced consultants will assess the effectiveness and efficiency of your program, identify any areas for improvement, and provide recommendations for enhancing its performance. We use a data-driven approach to gather and analyze information from various sources, including program documentation, stakeholder feedback, and performance metrics. Our program review services can help you identify strengths and weaknesses, make informed decisions about resource allocation, and improve your program’s overall effectiveness.

Our exploratory research services provide a critical first step in understanding complex problems or identifying new opportunities. Our experienced consultants use a variety of techniques to gather and analyze information from multiple sources, including interviews, surveys, and focus groups. We use a flexible approach to allow for unexpected findings and insights to emerge. Our exploratory research services can help you identify new trends, gain a deeper understanding of a situation or country context, and inform the development of Program Strategy and activities.

Our qualitative and quantitative data collection services offer a robust approach to gathering and analyzing data in challenging locations with limited accessibility and complex security situations. Our team of experienced consultants is trained in a variety of methods, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups, to collect and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data. We use state-of-the-art technology to ensure data security and confidentiality, and we adhere to strict ethical standards in all our data collection activities. Our qualitative and quantitative data collection services can help you gain insights into the needs and preferences of your target population, measure the effectiveness of your programs, and inform decision-making.