Title: Doing a feasibility study: training activities for starting or reviewing a small business.

POPLINE Document Number: 102008

Author(s):

Kindervatter S
Kelley M
Melching M
Range M
Valenzuela L

Source citation:

[New York, New York], United Nations Development Fund for Women [UNIFEM], 1991. 153, 18 p. (Appropriate Business Skills for Third World Women No. 2)

Abstract:

This manual presents a series of activities which enable women in developing countries to perform a feasibility study in order to examine various business options and carefully determine which one is economically feasible. Whereas, the facilitator must be able to read the book, the program is designed to be used by women who are illiterate as well as those who can read. The manual opens with notes to the facilitator and information on planning a program (appropriate meeting places, necessary materials, possible schedules, etc.). Part 1 introduces participants to the concepts of a feasibility study using a story and a series of posters to depict the experiences of a group of women. The 6 steps of a feasibility study (choosing a product, determining if there is a market for the product, deciding how the business will operate, calculating business expenses, estimating sales income, and deciding if the business is a good idea) are then presented. For each step, several learning activities are given. Part 2 of the manual, "Doing a Feasibility Study," presents tips for the facilitator and discusses ways of obtaining necessary information and how to decide on a business. Training activities and guidelines for each subsection enable women to conduct their own research, analysis, and decision making. Participants end with a concrete business plan. Each learning activity is organized according to purpose, time, rationale, preparation for the session, and steps to follow. This allows facilitators to refer to the manual during sessions.

Keywords:

Developing Countries
Manual
Women in Development
Income Generation Programs
Women's Status
Training Activities
Commerce
Economic Development
Economic Factors
Socioeconomic Factors
Training Programs
Education
Macroeconomic Factors