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What is Resource

A Resource on Capacity4dev is not just another document; it signifies a deeper commitment to improving the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of EU international cooperation. Resources embody established tools or methodologies that have earned the trust and adoption of international cooperation professionals. Think of them as the bedrock methodologies, like the "Teams Europe Initiative and Joint Programming Tracker" or "Results & Indicators for Development".

The essence of curating such Resources on Capacity4dev is to centralize and spotlight the principal tools and methodologies integral to the European Commission's Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA) and for international cooperation professions at large.

Resources Essentials:

  1. Step: Criteria for Submitting a New Resource
  2. Step: What is the difference between Resource and Project

Step 1: Criteria for Submitting a New Resource on Capacity4dev

To maintain the platform's integrity and to ensure the Resources meet the expectations of our members, there are certain conditions that members should adhere to when proposing a new Resource:

  1. Relevance: While it doesn't have to be widespread already, the tool or methodology should be designed for broad, horizontal application rather than being limited to a niche or specific topic
  2. Depth: It's essential that a proposed Resource is more than just a standalone document. It should represent a depth of thought, addressing broad developmental challenges.
  3. Alignment: The Resource must resonate with Capacity4dev's objectives, especially focusing on the tools and methodologies pivotal to DG INTPA.
  4. Unique Contribution: We value innovation. Resources that bring a fresh approach or perspective to the table are prioritized. Replicas or minor tweaks of existing Resources won't make the cut.
  5. Non-Promotional: Capacity4dev is about genuine knowledge-sharing. Resources that predominantly market an organization or a commercial product/service are off the table.
  6. Commitment to Update: Cooperation is dynamic. Once a Resource is accepted, the Owner and Administrators are accountable for keeping it updated, reflecting the latest developments or refinements.

Step 2: What is the difference between Resource and Project

Understanding the differences between "Projects" and "Resources" on Capacity4dev is key to leveraging the platform's full potential. Both Projects and Resources offer valuable information and insights, and platform members can follow both to stay updated. However, neither Projects nor Resources allow for direct membership, highlighting their roles as sources of information rather than communities for active participation.

The distinction primarily lies in their purpose and content. 
Resources are comprehensive collections that include tools, documents, methodologies, and guidelines specifically designed to support development professionals in managing EU-funded interventions. These Resources are curated with a horizontal approach to methodology, meaning they are intended to be broadly applicable across various development contexts and challenges. They are not repositories of documents; they represent a deep, thoughtful approach to addressing developmental challenges, emphasizing relevance, innovation, and alignment with Capacity4dev’s goals. [Check criteria for creating a Resource] (this will be an anchor on the page)

Projects, on the other hand, are primarily platforms for showcasing interventions, mainly but not limited to those funded by the EU. The criteria for publishing a Project are less stringent than for Resources, focusing more on sharing knowledge and outcomes of specific initiatives. Instead of building a self-standing website and with no technical skills needed, Projects on Capacity4dev allow for showcasing efforts and achievements of diverse initiatives, all under the same Capacity4dev umbrella. [Check more information about Project] (link to Project page) 

In summary, while both Projects and Resources are integral to the Capacity4dev platform, offering avenues for following and reacting to content, their core difference lies in their intent and structure. Resources are in-depth, methodologically horizontal tools and guidelines for development work. Projects are more about showcasing and sharing specific initiatives, with less emphasis on meeting rigorous criteria beyond their illustrative and informative value.

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Members keen on adding to Capacity4dev's Resource repository should ensure their contributions align with these conditions. By doing so, we can sustain the quality, relevance, and utility of Resources, fortifying our commitment to fostering knowledge and collaboration among EU international cooperation professionals.