Introduction to the Initial Diagnosis phase 

Step 1 : Situation analysis  

The purpose of a situation analysis is to gain a thorough understanding of the context in which a project will be implemented. This analysis can encompass many aspects, such as an understanding the humanitarian context, the sociocultural and economic characteristics of affected communities, existing humanitarian coordination mechanisms, and the various risks associated with project implementation (security, logistics, environmental factors, etc.) in order to develop mitigation and adaptation plans. It plays a crucial role in identifying and prioritizing the immediate needs of affected populations, thereby guiding project design toward areas where humanitarian impact can be maximized.

Essential to the success of a humanitarian project, the situation analysis also assesses pre-existing capacities and resources within the community. It facilitates the design of appropriate, relevant, and sustainable interventions, promoting an inclusive and participatory approach with affected communities.

To better understand the contexts of its various projects, the FRC offers a set of tools for situation analysis. These may be used during project design, project reviews, strategic and operational country planning, or to ensure regular monitoring of the context of its Delegation, etc.

Situation analysis should include an assessment of HNS’s needs and capacities in order to identify areas where the FRC can provide support for HNS’s development and strengthening. 

Step 2 : Participatory need analysis   

The purpose of the participatory needs assessment is to conduct an objective review of the situation of populations affected by a crisis or disaster in order to gain an accurate understanding of the needs in the area, the capacities of the affected populations, and contextual factors that may facilitate or hinder the successful implementation of an intervention led by the FRC.

The participatory needs assessment must be conducted jointly with the HNS and must include an analysis of the needs and capacities of the SNH itself, in order to identify the areas of support from the CRF for the development and support of the SNH. A participatory approach must be implemented, involving affected populations, Movement partners, other humanitarian actors, and local authorities. Furthermore, consultation with relevant actors and coordinating bodies such as United Nations Clusters is essential.

Internally, effective coordination among program, technical, and support teams is essential to conduct a qualitative needs assessment. The complementary nature of professional profiles and expertise enables the conduct of a participatory needs assessment tailored to the local context in a manner that best respects the environment (analysis of local markets and supply chains, participatory consultation with communities, analysis of technical needs according to seasonal variations, security assessment, etc.).

The FRC offers two different kits for participatory needs assessments:

• The Rapid Multisectoral Assesment (RMA) Kit

• The In-Depth Initial Assessment (IIA) Kit

In addition to these two kits, the Data Collection and Analysis page on this website presents the different types of data collection (qualitative and quantitative) that can be organized during the participatory needs assessment phase.

For the analysis of HNS' needs and capacities, please refer to the NSD expertise website.

1. Rapid Multisectoral Assessment (RMA) 

The use of the Rapid Multisectoral Assessment (RMA) Kit is recommended for FRC delegations or National Societies wishing to conduct a rapid assessment following a small-scale crisis or disaster, or when limited time or resources are available. This RMA helps identify priority needs on which to base a response and to determine whether it is necessary to conduct a more in-depth analysis of needs in specific intervention sectors. The FRC has an RMA kit, the use of which is recommended for non-specialist teams within the FRC or for deployment to National Society teams.

2. In-Depth Initial Assessment (IIA)

The use of the In-Depth Initial Assessment (IIA) kit allows for a more thorough analysis than that provided by the EMR. It is, for example, recommended for assessments focused on specific themes or sectors of intervention. The use of internal evaluators from the FRC’s technical departments should be prioritized before considering the use of external evaluators. In all cases, the choice must be made in consultation with the technical advisors involved in the assessment.