Aid Governance Model

A scientific foundation, practical applicability and a pragmatic implementation characterize our approach. The Governance Model is based on a project which was developed at the University of St. Gallen and is constantly refined through its numerous practical applications. Its application can present the organization in no time with an integrative and systematic view of the organization even in complex contexts. Together, ideas of practical realization and an increase of values within and also outside the organization can be developed. The holistic view enables an organization to clarify and manifest its distinctiveness and further opportunities to increase positive impacts.

Our integrated Governance and Management Concept comprises six modules:

System Management leads to a systematic understanding of the project environment, in which the organization is active (or will start its activities). Continually updated, it will be the basis for a sustainable positioning, for the «business model» and sustainable strategies. It enables identification of impact, sustainability and optimization possibilities.

Mission Management assesses, on the basis of a holistic understanding of the system, how strategy, structure and culture can be designed and controlled. A critical success factor is the understanding of the different stakeholders and hierarchies. These should be considered and if necessary, optimized.

Integrity Management helps to identify and resolve ethical challenges before a scandal may arise. This helps to proactively support the integrity of the organization.

Extended Stakeholder Management ensures cooperation through resolving mutual claims and fostering a broad accountability. Strategically and ethically relevant aspects are incorporated in the holistic understanding of the system. The identification and continuous monitoring of the claims and expectations of stakeholders are important prerequisites. It serves the long-term accountability and satisfaction of all persons concerned.

Risk Management supports the organization in the early detection of risks and opportunities, to evaluate those and to be able to deal with them. Pivotal elements are a complete and periodic detection of risks, a cyclic risk management process, inducing monitoring activities and a bottom-up philosophy.

Audit Management supports the organisation to fulfil the governmental rules and regulations and moreover to introduce audits as an internal value-creating control instrument.

The six modules of the Governance-Model offer an integrative platform that fosters a collaborative approach while continuously building capacity of the involved actors in their development. The systematic tracking of the modules permits clear statements about impacts and sustainability of projects and organizations. This way resources intended for development really have an impact and turn into development.