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The Research
The WD-SA is essentially an experiential, experimental, applied and innovative research mechanism aimed at facilitating a deeper understanding of the provision of water services. From the problem statement, the following research question was formulated:
| Given the varying capacities of Water Service Authorities (WSAs), how do different institutional approaches affect outcomes? |
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The research is structured around institutional approaches. Specific approaches are reflected most accurately in the section 78 selection of a Water Service Provider (WSP) and the form of the contract between the Water Service Authority (WSA) and WSP (left columns below). However the capacity of the WSA is also likely to influence water and sanitation delivery. (Since there is no straightforward measure of capacity, “operating income” was used as a proxy for capacity.)
The table below shows the structure used to select case studies for primary research. In each case study area selected, teams of researchers contracted by WD-SA will conduct key informant interviews as well as participatory community workshops to assess how the institutional approach affected service delivery, user satisfaction, financial management, and resource management. |
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In the table above, *indicates cells in which potential case studies have been identified. When two different institutional approaches were used in one area concurrently or when the institutional approach changed over time, the same case appears in two cells. Comparing areas with similar capacities and institutional arrangements will allow for the emergence of other factors to explain differences in delivery.
Pilot research in three areas, namely Ugu (KwaZulu Natal), iLembe, (KwaZulu Natal) and Bushbuckridge (Mpumalanga) began in July 2007 and is scheduled to be completed by the end of early 2008. Interim results will be posted as soon as they are available.
In each case study area, research was conducted with both the water service providers (WSP’s) and the users of water (community members). The questions used to guide the research can be viewed through these links.
The Policy Formation Poster shows how findings from case studies could feed into national policy, via the Working Group.
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