PROPACK I: Project Design and Proposal Guidance for CRS Project and Program Managers

ProPack I was first published in 2004, and this update comes after a decade of use. A 2013 user’s survey found that ProPack I was appreciated as an important resource for project design. Many users requested that it be revised with a greater focus on how to conduct project design, including practical steps and tools. Users also suggested that the revised ProPack I better integrate gender considerations, align with complementary business development guidance—such as Technical Application Guidance (TAG)  and Cost Application Guidance (CAG)—and include specific guidance on budgeting and on planning for project management structures and staffing, among others.

The revised ProPack I:

• Reflects an updated project design process, including concept notes
• Provides guidance on how to analyze and interpret assessment data
• Considers the results framework and the project strategy together, with attention to the project’s theory of change
• Retains most of the original information on developing a Proframe – considered one of the most useful sections of the 2004 ProPack I – with updated monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning (MEAL) planning tools
• Highlights the importance of activity scheduling, budgeting, and management and operations planning as integral parts of project design
• Includes a chapter on cross‑cutting issues to consider throughout project design. These issues reflect agency core competencies and include: Partner collaboration and support, gender integration, peacebuilding and governance integration, beneficiary accountability, and learning
• Highlights how project design steps and guidance apply in the context of an emergency