Conceptualizing irrigation project modernization through benchmarking and the rapid appraisal process

Benchmarking is defined as a systematic process for achieving continued improvement in the irrigation sector through comparisons with relevant and achievable internal or external goals, norms, and standards. The three aspects of benchmarking are: evaluation of technical indicators (both internal and external); appraisal of the system processes; and an evaluation of service to users and their satisfaction with that service. The authors have incorporated all three components into a training program in which project staff learn the concepts of modernization and then evaluate their own project in a systematic rapid appraisal process (RAP). At the end of the training, internal and external indicators are developed for the project, and the local staff develop a priority list for modernization of the project. This paper will present the concepts of the RAP. Copyright (C) 2004 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.