To improve results and image of development projects, methods for planning, management and advise are introduced for systematical use. On all levels of governmental and nongovernmental institutions a real boom of participatory methods was initiated. Most famous examples are ZOPP of the GTZ and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA). However, there are several risks implied in this institutional decreed offensive of methods. The routine use of methods, which are intended to contribute to more flexibility and participatory counselling, may as well result in bureaucratic stiffness. Mechanical application and trasfer of methods by experts fails in using them effectively and realising the participatory integration of the target group.
This guide has been written for members of NGOs who are active in community-based work among pastoralists. The guide's purpose is to describe a simple method that can help to understand how indigenous people classify and use their local environment. The author's definition of local environment includes any activity or project that has had an impact on the community, therefore this method can also be used to understand how local people evaluate development projects that have affected them.