Solutions Groups

LD4D convenes Solutions Groups to address specific livestock data challenges.

Solutions Groups are a collaboration platform bringing together decision makers and experts from the LD4D network. Solutions groups work on a specific data or evidence challenge, and together produce a tailored data tool or knowledge product that can support decision making. These groups are designed to deliver usable outputs within 6-12 months.

 

Photo: Canan Yasar (Pexels)

Before a Solutions Group is established, LD4D works with organisations to conduct a scoping activity that brings together LD4D members from a range of disciplines to collaborate on a topic or question. The objective is to better understand data challenges, identify decision making needs, and provide actionable insights and answers to the user asking the data question. A scoping activity may synthesise knowledge, improve existing tools or data, or generate proposals for setting up a Solutions Group.

The Solutions Group framework, designed and facilitated by LD4D, uses a series of convenings to lead the selected group through brainstorming, production of evidence or knowledge outputs, and dissemination of the outputs. More details about the framework are highlighted below and LD4D can work with organisations to adapt the framework as needed. The tested process focuses on bringing together the right experts, creating space and structures to encourage problem-solving, and action-oriented facilitation techniques to deliver timely and relevant insights for decision-makers.

A flowchart diagram showing the Solutions Group Process with seven numbered steps connected by a curved path. Starting with a lightbulb icon labeled 'Challenge Area' where donors, the Secretariat and partners select challenges aligned with sector and funding priorities. The process flows through: Step 1 - SG Convening where LD4D brings together experts and key decision makers; Step 2 - Refining the challenge where SG explores drivers, opportunities, and challenges; Step 3 - Theory of Change where SG develops a Theory of Change and KPIs; Step 4 - Outputs where SG co-produces outputs; Step 5 - Data-Driven Decisions where outputs inform decision making processes; Step 6 - Disseminate Results where SG shares outcomes and lessons learned; and Step 7 - Next Steps where members set priorities for future actions. The steps are connected by a dark blue curved path with dashed white lines, and each numbered step appears in a teal circular badge.