feasibility studies
As stated earlier, many community groups, projects and programmes start with one or more people having a dream about how to make a difference in the community, and a passion to make this vision a reality.
A feasibility study is a "reality check" on these dreams - it will give you some information about how realistic your chances of success are - and what pitfalls you can expect to face.
A feasibility study will help you identify:
- What you want the group/programme or project to accomplish in the community. This gets beyond an individual's, or small group's vision to focus on the wider community change you are seeking to make.
- Whether there's a need in the community for the group/programme or project you are thinking about. Is there a demand for the project/programme? How many people are affected or will benefit? Can you link in to existing groups or programmes? What level of support is there in the community for your idea?
- If there is a need, what will it take to make your idea become a reality? What resources will you need and what challenges will you face?
(Adapted from Starting a New Programme..., Gottleib).
The answers to these questions will give you better information to decide whether, or how, to proceed with your project. If you decide to go ahead, the feasibility study links into your operational and project plans.
Tip
Because you will probably be (and will be seen to be) biased in favour of your idea, it is best to get an independent person to do the feasibility study - especially if you intend to use it to raise funds.