One approach is based on local action plans. Here, the individual projects implemented are defined by local priorities in a planning process involving specialists, citizens and community groups. The criteria used for prioritization are broadly intended to create maximum community support. A good example is a model where considerable emphasis has been placed on considering local social and economic conditions when determining how a project can be sustainable.
The following key stages are often used when developing a community project: (i) analysis of prevailing situation; (ii) problem assessment; (iii) solicitation of public participation in prioritizing local needs; (iv) assessment of the finance and other resources required to implement the project; (v) classification of the tasks in a project according to their importance; and (vi) keeping local political leaders, community leaders and the general public informed of progress during project design and implementation.
2. Community resources of public spirit, leadership and inventive solutions to problems are limited.
3. Community-level projects are subject to the personal manipulation and tending inherent in any small-group effort.