A rigorous approach to identifying and understanding binding constraints to economic growth early in program development is crucial to informing program design and to carrying out an effective project. At the time of project implementation in Mali, MCC’s compact development process had not yet incorporated what are now critical components of its compact development process. The AIP was developed without the benefit of a comprehensive approach linking the economic logic of the proposed program activities to specific problems underlying the binding constraints to growth; and the project design suffered as a result. These compact development analytical tools are now a required part of MCC’s compact and threshold program design processes, and MCC has taken important steps toward socializing these tools within partner countries as well as promoting more collaborative work planning within MCC and with partner governments. Continuing to value collaborative work planning and rigorous program design tools is crucial to ensuring the quality, rigor, and effectiveness of MCC’s programs.
Lesson Learned