The following model has been developed using the lessons learned by the regional coordinators and their experiences testing CBM approaches in their communities. Each of the pilot communities contributed uniquely to the development of the model, which can act as a highly useful reference for other communities interested in starting up a CBM program.

Since communities are unique, any approach to Community Based Monitoring should be appropriate to local context, a continually evolving process, and flexible to change. In other words, CBM needs to be versatile, iterative and adaptive. It involves four key interrelated phases: Community Mapping, Participation Assessment, Capacity Building, and Information Gathering & Delivery.
 
 
 

Community Mapping
	Gathering information about the community helps to design CBM that is unique to the community and its interests. It provides the opportunity for decision-makers to describe their information needs and the chance to maximize collaboration between partners.

Participation Assessment
	Understanding the groups and people involved in CBM generates knowledge about how to engage them, use their skills and meet their needs. Participation Assessment helps find the best approaches for building capacity.

Capacity Building
	Enhancing the community’s ability to carry out monitoring requires capacity in the form of resources and skills – both social and technical. Good coordination, training and information delivery mechanisms are essential.

Information Gathering & Delivery
	Communication flows through all aspects of CBM. Educating people about monitoring, identifying local priorities, and reporting back the results rely on effective communication. When information needs are identified, monitoring becomes demand-driven, which informs the development of more effective tools and solutions for local environmental issues. The decision-makers then need to feed this knowledge and skill into appropriate local choices that are adaptive.

More detail on this process is available here. By following this model and the factors for success using the most appropriate tools for your community, you can begin a successful CBM program in your community. Click here for information on how to get involved.