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.
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
We have extensive experience in collecting health data using digital data collection tools and platforms. The use of digital tools for data collection, along with other data management practices such as data cleaning and data quality control, reduce data collection errors and ensure quality data for data analysis and data interpretation for decision-making. Sharing insights with stakeholders to tailor effective and sustainable solutions for their communities is one of our core strengths. OCI has conducted health data collection across Africa. OCI has also led the planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating of health sector interventions. The collective experience of OCI health consultants spans across Africa, with expertise in health-systems strengthening; public health and public health policies; women, maternal and child health; sexual and reproductive health in both men and women; and health and sanitation in conflict settings.
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 believes that empowering women and young people, particularly through improved economic and livelihood opportunities and access to quality healthcare and education, is essential to development. Quality education and increased economic opportunities are important needs for the growing youth population in Africa. And for women in particular, an empowered woman with access to quality education, healthcare and economic opportunities can make informed decisions about her reproductive health, influencing the health behaviors of herself and her family. Furthermore, we reinforce equity in development policies for youth and women by optimizing data systems to include demographic information such as gender, age and socio-economic status. Bonaventure Fandohan, OCI’s Managing Partner, brings key perspectives thanks to his expertise in economic and community development.
OCI believes that women’s reproductive health, including maternal and child health and family planning, is an important aspect of women empowerment and women’s economic development. We therefore put women, especially young women, at the heart of decision-making in assignments related to women’s reproductive health.
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 evaluations assess 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. It also provides information on the effectiveness of programs, helps to identify areas for improvement, and supports decision-making around resource allocation and program continuation. 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. OCI has conducted a number of impact evaluations including mid-term and end-line evaluations across several countries in Africa and in the fields of peace and security, livelihoods, women and youth empowerment. We also have extensive experience using the OECD-DAC criteria for impact evaluations.
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.
