All Portfolio Projects

WFP, World Bank, and MOSA: Verification of Databases for National Poverty Targeting Program (NPTP)

The key objective of the study is to provide the WFP/World Bank/ Ministry of Social Affairs / NPTP Central Management Unit (CMU) at the Presidency of the Council of Ministers with verification of the eligibility of households which are currently included in the NPTP database. Eligibility is assessed through a Proxy Means Test (PMT) which was formulated in coordination with the WFP. InfoPro was commissioned to verify the data.

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ILO: Beneficiary Surveys

Evaluate the program in comparison to goals. The Employment Intensive Infrastructure Project (EIIP) is a program launched by the ILO. It is focused on sustainable asset creation for local communities through investment in infrastructure projects. Now in its fourth phase, the program identified and executed 23 key local infrastructure projects. Surveys were conducted with local beneficiaries and the various stakeholders to evaluate the program in comparison to target goals highlighting any unintended and/or negative repercussions through a study.
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UNOPS: Assessment and Rehabilitation Plan SIMA Sustainable Integrated Municipal Actions – Lebanon

Identify priority areas for prospective projects and interventions in Beirut and Bourj Hammoud Municipalities. Verify the selection of projects identified in a previous phase, select additional projects of benefit to the communities under study, and conduct a peace, conflict, and gender analysis for all projects. An Integrative Rehabilitation Plan was also prepared. Selected projects were mapped, a maturity appraisal of the proposed projects was conducted, a cost estimate and implementation schedule of each project was also developed. Data was gathered through primary and secondary research.

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UNDP: Non-Health Covid Response to Covid 19 Impact Analysis

End of project evaluation. Evaluated two projects: ‘Reducing the direct economic downturn impact on vulnerable Communities in Lebanon’ and ‘Labour Intensive Forest Activities with Vulnerable Communities in Lebanon’ in conformity with OECD /DAC evaluation criteria: Relevance/Coherence, Effectiveness, Efficiency, Relevance, and Sustainability.

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Humanity and Inclusion: Data Collection Services

Humanity and Inclusion (HI) wants to monitor the needs of the various marginalized groups and assess the effectiveness of the HI programs and the work being carried out by their partners. As its data collection arm, InfoPro has conducted several studies to monitor HI activities. A mixed methodological approach has been utilized. Methodology: 1,825 face-to-face and telephone surveys with beneficiaries.Read more

Mercy Corps: Final Program Evaluation

A study for Mercy Corps to conduct a final program evaluation for its 3amaly project. The project’s objective is that women and youth are empowered and valued for playing an active economic role within their households and communities employment. It is designed to improve livelihood opportunities for women and youth (aged 15-34) in Tripoli, Saida, Lower Chouf, and the city of Nabatiyeh. The OECD-DAC methodology was utilized. Methodology: 35 Key Informant Interviews with stakeholders and 12 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with beneficiaries and mentors.

Save the Children: End of Project Evaluation

A study for Save the Children to conduct an end of project evaluation for the ‘Reducing Vulnerabilities for Refugees and Lebanese Host Communities and Strengthening Lebanese Civil Society’ project that it is conducting with Nabad in Bekaa. The two-year project targets male and female youth from refugee and host communities. It aims to build their capabilities to transition successfully into adulthood. The OECD-DAC methodology was utilized. Methodology: 24 Key Informant Interviews with stakeholders, 8 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with Youth and Caregivers, and a survey with 400 Youth.

UNICEF: Monitoring of Education and Hygiene Supplies

To support children’s access to education, UNICEF, part of its partnership with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, provided education supplies as well as hygiene and Personal Protective Equipment / Material to schools. To evaluate the processes and the final outcomes of the support provided, UNICEF commissioned InfoPro to conduct a Post Distribution Monitoring (PDM) and to gain insights on the quality of the assistance given to the targeted schools and population. Methodology: Key Informant Interviews and Observations at Public Schools, DOPS Centers, and CERD Training Centers / Warehouse.

UNRWA: Mid-term Evaluation

A study for UNRWA to conduct a mid-term evaluation of their WAHET (or Sustainability in Education and Environmental Health for Palestine Refugees in Lebanon) project. The project which is 48 months in duration has two objectives: 1) to ensure Palestine refugees in camps have access to adequate and sustainable water infrastructure and services and 2) to provide access to quality, equitable and inclusive basic education for school-aged children. The OECD-DAC methodology was utilized. Methodology: 36 Key Informant Interviews with stakeholders, 14 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with beneficiaries in the camps, and field visits to the project’s sites.

UNICEF: Perspective on Health & Hygiene Needs and Barriers

A study for UNICEF to identify the actual health and hygiene needs of Informal Tented Settlements (ISs) to assist in evolving health and hygiene activities. Methodology: In-depth interviews with key actors and Focus Groups Discussions (FGDs) with refugees residing in ISs.

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World Bank: Economic Impact of Women (Lack Of) Mobility

Women’s and girls’ mobility and employment are severely affected by transportation infrastructure. As a result, the World Bank is conducting research to better understand the impact of public transportation system shortcomings on women’s mobility patterns and socioeconomic empowerment. The main objective of this study is to collect household data and information in Greater Beirut and Greater Amman areas in order to better understand women’s and men’s mobility needs, barriers, and employment status and aspirations, along with other demographic information. Methodology: CAPI surveys and FGDs in Beirut and Amman.Read more

OXFAM: Analyzing voter behavior in times of crises

A research study for Oxfam Lebanon focused on analyzing voter behavior in the current context and climate that Lebanon is going through in four electoral districts. The research helped understand the reasons for voter inclination and revealed factors necessary to create political change in a complex and deteriorating context. Methodology: A quantitative CATI survey with a large sample.Read more

UNICEF: Assessment of Support Provided to Children in Contact with the Law

UNICEF was interested in conducting a qualitative assessment of the support provided to children in contact with the law by three of its partners working on justice for children project. The focus of the study was to assess how these partners were responding to children in contact with the law and how they adapted their case management working procedures in light of the developments/crises that have been taking place in Lebanon. Methodology: Key Informant Interviews with all three partners and their staff, in addition to in-depth interviews with beneficiaries’ caregivers.Read more

Save the Children: Evaluation of Vocational and Entrepreneurship Programs

Save the Children Lebanon (SCL) implemented vocational and entrepreneurship trainings to support the generation of income in some of the most vulnerable localities. Caregivers and 1,074 youth were supported to access the job market. To evaluate the performance of the project, the OECD DAC methodology was utilized. Methodology: KIIs with employers, SCL staff members, and partner staff members and a CATI survey and focus groups discussions with program participants who underwent VT and ET trainings.Read more

UNDP: Social Appraisals and Business Plans

Conducting for UNDP seven simplified economic and social appraisals and 13 business development plans for a selection of small and medium sized projects. For the appraisals, a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the macro, meso and micro level economic and social impacts expected from the projects will be conducted. This will be complemented by a SWOT analysis, financial plan, considerations on the sustainability of the investment, and recommendations. For the business development plans, a needs assessment and action plan, business development services, and a Rapid Cost-Benefit Analysis will need to be undertaken. Methodology: KIIs, CAPI surveys, and focus group discussions.Read more

FAO: Technical Assessment of the Fruits, Vegetables and Nuts Value Chain

In-depth technical assessment for FAO of the fruits, vegetables and nuts (including pulses) value chains, to assess: 1) Mapping the Value Chains 2) Presenting options for improved productivity and value addition and 3) Assessing gaps in available technology and capacity of potential agriculture centers. Methodology: Interviews with actors in the sectors of agriculture and food processing, in addition to in-depth interviews with market actors and stakeholders such as middle-people, importers, smallholder farmers / small-scale food processors, agriculture and agro-food cooperatives, and MSMEs.

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ILO: Feasibility Study and Framework of a Referral Network on Post-Training Support Services

A feasibility analysis for ILO for a referral network system, develop a framework for a blueprint referral network system including implementation scenarios and risk analyses given the current context of the country. Methodology: Conduct Key Informant Interviews with Stakeholders, Map Existing Platforms and Providers of Skills Development and Post Training Support Services, identify potential international linkages, create a framework of the proposed referral system, and assess its feasibility. Methodology included conducting Key Informant Interviews with stakeholders, map existing platforms and providers of skills development and post training support services.
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British Council: Violent Extremism among Youth

Commissioned by the British Council, the mandate was to assess the opinions and insights of youths with regards to Violent Extremism and its prevention. Methodology: Desk Research, focus groups with Lebanese youth, and Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews with Lebanese and Non-Lebanese youth.

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EU: Final Evaluation of Afkar III Programme

The DAC framework for evaluation was utilized to assess the extent to which the EU financed project has met its objectives. Methodology: Desk Research, Key Informant / In-Depth Interviews, and focus groups with project beneficiaries.

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World Bank: Three Case Studies on Gender Workforce Diversity

Three case studies from the private sector in Lebanon commissioned by the World Bank. They focus on 1) Family Friendly Policies (FFPs) 2) Anti-Sexual Harassment and Safe Work Environment and 3) Women in Leadership Positions. Methodology: Desk research, in-depth interviews with top management, and focus groups with employees.

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Final Evaluation of Improving Access to Quality Health Care for Persons with Disabilities in Lebanon Program

The DAC framework for evaluation was utilized to assess the Improving Access to Quality Health Care for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Lebanon programme conducted by IMC. Methodology: Desk Research, 40 Key Informant and In-Depth Interviews, in addition to 10 focus groups and a survey with 450 PWDs.

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UNICEF: Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)

A study for UNICEF to assess how the Informal Settlement communities evaluate the relevance, effectiveness and quality of the water, sanitation and hygiene facilities in their camps. Methodology: Nine focus groups carried out with participants residing in various areas in Lebanon.
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World Bank and Ministry of Education: Education Impact Evaluation

Impact Evaluation study for The World Bank in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE). Baseline and an end-line surveys with coaches, teachers, and school principals. A student perception survey and classroom observations were also conducted. The impact evaluation will assess the following: coach content knowledge, teachers’ received dosage on coaching of core practices, perception of coaching session quality, teacher satisfaction, classroom instruction, students’ perception of their teachers and their academic engagement.

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UNICEF: Haddi Integrated Child Grant Program

A project for UNICEF to collect data for a baseline survey for the impact evaluation of ‘Haddi’ (Next to me) the Integrated Child Grant Programme, to measure how and to what extent the child grant increases households’ purchasing power for children, reduces negative coping strategies, and facilitates access to services, in an inclusive manner. Methodology: CATI.

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AVSI: Integration of Child Protection in Education

AVSI in collaboration with War Child Holland and Terre des Hommes Italy is undertaking a two-year programme titled “Back to the Future II” (BTF II). The programme seeks to promote the enrolment and the retention of refugee and vulnerable Lebanese children aged between three to 17 years old in formal education. InfoPro was commissioned to assess and provide evidence-based recommendations on the impact of child protection (CP) integration in the education response within the Back to the Future programme. Methodology: Desk Review, nine Key Informant Interviews, six Focus Group Discussions, and 280 surveys with caregivers and children.

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Chemonics: Baseline Surveys for Several Value Chains Under the Agriculture and Rural Empowerment (ARE) Activity

The Lebanon Agriculture and Rural Empowerment (ARE) Activity implemented by Chemonics aims to equip the agribusiness sector and rural communities with the technical and financial resources to generate increased productivity, sales, and exports, improving producer income. InfoPro was commissioned to monitor ARE’s activities in order to identify the success of its program and to inform future activities. The sectors assessed included 1) the dairy value chain 2) Fresh and Processed Vegetables value chain 3) Herbs value chain 4) Grapes, Stone Fruits, and Citrus and 5) Potatoes, Alliums, and Fodder. Methodology: Desk research, a quantitative survey with 1,000 farmers, and in-depth interviews with 150 retailers, wholesalers, cooperatives, MSMEs.

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UNDP: Dealing with the Past Monitoring and Evaluation

Provide M&E support to UNDP by conducting a baseline, mid-line, and end-line study. The study measured results achieved across all components of the project. Methodology for each phase: CATI, focus group discussions, and Key Informant Interviews with implementing partners.Read more

IFC: Market Assessment of Asset-Based Lending (ABL) with focus on Supply Chain Finance (SCF)

Assessment for IFC of Asset-Based Lending (ABL) products in Lebanon with a focus on the SCF market. The study provided: 1) Review and quantification of the overall potential of SCF, demand for SCF, supply, and uncovered gaps across major industries, 2) Recommendations about possible actions for financial institutions in Lebanon to tap into the SCF opportunity, 3) List of the SCF technology platforms with their related key features and characteristics. Methodology: Desk research, Key Informant Interviews, Focus Group discussions, and surveys with MSMEs.

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IFC: Digital financial services and the digitization of agricultural value chains

IFC aimed to increase access to financial services in Lebanon by providing financial institutions with Investment and Advisory Services. IFC appointed PPI and InfoPro to carry out an opportunity sizing/mapping of the financial services sector. An additional focus of the study was to identify opportunities (such as digitalization) for stakeholders within value chains, particularly with regard to supporting financial inclusion of small holder crop farmers. Methodology: Quantitative survey with 1,380 farmers, households, and MSMEs.

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NDI: Citizens Attitude Toward Socio-Economic and Political Developments

The National Democratic Institute (NDI) commissioned InfoPro to conduct a nationwide public opinion survey and a series of focus groups to capture Lebanese citizens’ perceptions, expectations, and attitudes towards the current political and economic situation. Methodology: 10 focus groups and a quantitative survey with 2,400 individuals.

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FAO and Fair Trade: Gender Value Chain Analysis

Market system study in Akkar, North, and South Lebanon, and Baalbek-Hermel. The study provided updated information on the current status of four value chains (Plant Product, Agro-Food Processing, Animal Production, and Fisheries and Aquaculture), using a gender perspective. Methodology: 30 Key Informant Interviews, 28 focus groups, and a quantitative survey with 1,400 farmers/herders, fishermen / women, and firm owners.

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ILO: Simplified Economic Assessment Study in Saida

A simplified Economic Assessments (SEA) for the ILO that aims at assessing the feasibility of the revival of the Abul Abed coffee shop strip in old Saida. Methodology: Desk Research, Primary Research – Key Informant Interviews, In-Depth Interviews, Focus Groups, and observations, and an Economic Impact Assessment of the Project at the at the micro, meso, and macro levels.

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USAID and Palladium: Microfinance Demand Survey

Palladium and USAID kick started the support the Livelihoods and Inclusive Finance Expansion (LIFE) project in Lebanon. The aim of the project is to economically empower the unbanked, low-income, and underserved micro clientele ad simultaneously link vulnerable entrepreneurs with micro-finance institutions who will provide them with customized business management training, technical know-how, mentoring, and basic business development skills. The aim of the project is to also to strengthen the capacity of microfinance institutions (MFIs) and the Lebanese Microfinance Association (LMA) so that they can increase their range of products and services and expand their reach of borrowers to include microenterprises with an emphasis on higher-risk, conflict affected areas, including new, unbanked, and existing microenterprises, and low-income women-headed households. In order to gain a better understanding of entrepreneurship in Lebanon and to assist the Central Bank, in understanding the microenterprise landscape, InfoPro was commissioned to conduct a National Market Demand Survey among the general population and micro-enterprises. The aim of the survey was to profile micro-entrepreneurs and potential micro-entrepreneurs, identify the financial services they currently utilize, their demand for additional financial services, and how they are distributed across the various Lebanese governorates / Mohafazat. The findings of the survey helped InfoPro forecast the potential market value for micro-finance institutions among both the general population and micro-enterprises. It also helped reveal the areas that should be concentrated on. InfoPro interviewed 2,000 households and 1,200 micro-enterprises nationwide.Read more

USAID: Qitabi 2 Baseline Assessment

A study for QITABI-2 project implemented by World Learning and financed by USAID. Gathering baseline data by surveying students and teachers in Grades 2, 3, and 6 in public and private schools. The project will enhance the provision of educational services in Lebanon and specifically the skills of children in reading, math, writing, and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. Methodology: Assess schools and conduct surveys with principals, teachers, and students.Read more

World Vision: Child Protection, Advocacy, and Livelihoods Baseline Survey

Baseline evaluation to provide clear evidence of children’s well-being pre and post World Vision’s Child Protection and livelihood interventions. Methodology: Desk Research and 2,920 Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) with caregivers.

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Opinion Polling of the Parliamentary and Municipal Elections

Since 2009 a large number of opinion polls were commissioned to gauge voter intentions in parliamentary and municipal elections in a large number of districts. The polls assessed voting inclination and position of citizens prior to the elections. Issues analyzed included: Voting intention, Candidates of choice, and Political affiliation. Methodology: Up to 20,000 household interviews across electoral districts.
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ACTED: Final External Evaluation

A study for ACTED to evaluate their multi-sector program. The main objective of the program was to enhance the resilience of vulnerable host and refugee communities in Lebanon, through the promotion of livelihood opportunities, protection support and advocacy for their wellbeing. The target groups that were engaged to achieve the project objectives were vulnerable refugees and host communities, 13 Social Development Centers, 13 Civil Society Organizations, government authorities, private sector actors, government authorities, and the general public. The aim of the study was to assess the extent to which the project has met its objectives and to provide an external opinion on the relevance and performance of the project, as compared to the original plan. Methodology: Desk research, 15 Key Informant Interviews (KII) with Stakeholders, and three focus groups according to five DAC criteria (relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, sustainability, impact). Actionable recommendations and best practices were presented to enhance the planning, implementation, and management of future projects.
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The World Economic Forum’s Executive Opinion Survey (EOS)

Since 2015, InfoPro has conducted an annual survey of company leaders for the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) ‘Global Competitiveness Report’ assessing the competitive landscape of economies worldwide and providing insight into the drivers of their productivity and prosperity. A major component of the report is the Executive Opinion Survey (EOS) which measures a nation’s economic environment and its ability to achieve sustained growth. The Survey measures appetite for entrepreneurship, skill gaps, and corruption. The Survey also helps calculate the WEF Global Competitiveness Index (GCI), and other indices.
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TOTAL and DAR: Oil Drilling Social Impact Baseline

A study for Total and Dar Group. The Council of Ministers awarded the oil drilling exploration and production licenses to the consortium composed of Total, ENI and JSC Novatek. Total E&P Liban – which was planning to start its drilling activities – and as per its internal requirements and to meet regulations needed to launch a Social Baseline Study (SBS). The main objective was to gain a thorough understanding of the socio-economic context and human environment of the future site(s) before the drilling operations begin. Methodology: Desk research, focus groups with fishermen and farmers, and 60 Key Informant Interviews with various stakeholders.
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ACTED: Building Resilient Communities: An Integrated Approach to Livelihoods and Income Generation for Vulnerable Populations

A study for ACTED to evaluate their multi-sector program. The main objective of the program was to Address Root Causes (ARC) of conflict and instability in Lebanon by creating for vulnerable individuals’ sustainable income-generating and livelihood opportunities. The program was implemented in Akkar, Tripoli, Mount Lebanon, Beirut, and Saida. 1,500 individuals, 19 SDCs, 3 TVET Institutes, 1 Vocational Training Center, 22 Artisans and 75 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) were targeted across Lebanon. The aim of the study was to assess the extent to which the project has met its objectives and to provide an external opinion on the relevance and performance of the project, as compared to the original plan. Methodology: 18 key informant interviews, 15 in-depth interviews and CATI surveys with 350 beneficiaries.

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Impact of the Ban of Turkish Wafers

A study for the Association of Food Importers to determine whether certain Turkish products were being sold at dumping prices in the local market. The government had banned the import of wafer and biscuits and detergents from Turkey. This was done in a bid to protect Lebanese industries from the devaluation of the Turkish lira which has caused these products in specific to become very cheap. Methodology: Desk research, in-depth interviews with manufacturers and importers, interviews with large supermarkets, and field visits to retail shops in Lebanon and in Turkey.
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ACTED: Food Security Value Chain Study

A Food Security Value Chain Assessment. The objective was to identify food value chains critical to food security, key bottlenecks and impediments to agricultural production along selected value chains, and propose solutions and recommendations to alleviate efficiency bottlenecks. A desk research exercise was conducted to identifying gaps in available information. A list of the basic food commodities for vulnerable population groups especially those affected by the Beirut port blast was identified. A prioritization matrix was prepared and four value chains were selected. A full value chain analysis across the four products selected was then conducted. Methodology: Desk research, Methodology: Desk research, 20 key-informant interviews (KIIs) with sector experts and representatives, and a quantitative survey with 208 farmers, cooperative members, business owners, and other market actors along each step of the value chain.

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UNICEF: Third-party monitoring – Healthy Camp Monitoring Tool (HCMT)

A study for UNICEF for the Healthy Camp Monitoring Tool (HCMT) to support its implementing partners to better measure the impact of the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) intervention. Methodology: Conduct 110 monthly field visits, a total of 1,320 visits per year, to Syrian refugee Informal Tented Settlements to assess the WASH and Health conditions of Syrian refugees. In each of the visited sites, InfoPro measured the impact of the WASH intervention by assessing the following: Hygiene behavior change at the site level, Use of the wash facilities by the community, Access of communities to safe drinking water, Knowledge of the communities on preventing water borne diseases.
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World Bank and MOSA: Value Chain Analysis for the Bekaa and North

A study for the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) and the World Bank. Identify and select two value chains in each of the six districts under study. The main objective of the study was to support MoSA in implementing and delivering support to identified beneficiaries in Bekaa and North Lebanon. Methodology: Collecting background research and figures on all sectors. In-depth interviews were conducted with key players to identify the value chains to be adopted. A prioritization matrix was formulated to assess various sectors with the highest potential. Insights were provided technical issues relevant to value chains selected by MoSA to support beneficiaries, potential job opportunities associated with each value chain, and existing support programs available. A survey with beneficiaries and farmers was conducted to evaluate their skill level and experience to identify training needs. Assessment of training institutions.
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World Bank and GDS: Value Chain Analysis in six sectors

A study for Global Development Solutions (GDS) and the World Bank. Identify and select two potential value chains for analysis from the following six sectors: agriculture and agro-processing; recycling and waste management; information, communications and technology entrepreneurship; municipal services; construction; and trade and Tripoli port development and trade logistics. Methodology: Collecting background research and figures on the various sectors being covered. In-depth interviews were also conducted with all key players in order to identify the value chains to be adopted. A prioritization assessment matrix was formulated to assess the various sectors with the highest potential using a set of different criteria. A snowball sampling method (commonly used to identify value chain stakeholders) was used to determine additional entities/companies to interview along the value chain. InfoPro and GDS conducted semi-structured interviews with stakeholders at every step in the value chain, including firms, government, NGOs, industry organizations, and others.
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USAID and MSI: School Assessment Tests

Baseline and end line surveys for Management Systems International and USAID to conduct the EGRA Assessment Test among school students and measure the impact of the project on student reading performance. 9,800 students and 920 teachers were assessed.
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World Bank: Teacher Observation Study

A study for the World Bank, part of the R4R program, to identify the obstacles that are delaying educational development and provide decision makers with quantitative data that can assist in changing and developing new policies. The survey was conducted together with staff from the Ministry of Education (DOPS). Identify classroom practices by assessing teacher training and teacher behavior to student perceptions across Grade 4 and 7 classrooms using CLASS, an instrument developed by the World Bank. The exercise was conducted in 120 schools. In total, 888 classroom observations were conducted and 707 teachers were assessed.
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UNICEF: Vulnerability Assessment of Syrian Refugees (VASYR)

A study for UNICEF to identify problems faced by women, men and children refugees and their coping mechanisms. Refugees’ key priorities and how they are being met through assistance, community perceptions and gaps in humanitarian assistance, and their future plans. Methodology: 32 focus groups of Syrian refugees residing in informal tented settlements and in host communities.
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USAID and Social Impact: Country Level Gender Analysis

A study to assess existing gender gaps, opportunities and needs that the USAID / Lebanon program can address to better achieve its objectives. The study also delved into the different perceptions of women and men that are particularly disadvantaged or have strong unmet needs for empowerment. Methodology: 56 focus groups and 71 in-depth interviews with representatives from USAID, civil society organizations, municipal members of both genders, ministries and donors.
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UNICEF: Assessment of E-Course on Child Protection

A study for UNICEF to evaluate ‘E-Course on Child Protection Case Management’ designed to strengthen the professional capacity of social workers and case managers in Lebanon. The course was developed by UNICEF and the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) to better address issues of violence, exploitation, and abuse among children. Methodology: Four focus groups of participants who have completed the E-course. Also assessed: Experience of end-users with online learning, knowledge gained by end-users, obstacles and challenges faced, and ways of improving and optimizing the effectiveness of the E-course.
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World Bank and MOSA: Verification of Databases for National Poverty Targeting Program (NPTP)

The key objective of the study is to provide the World Bank/ Ministry of Social Affairs / NPTP Central Management Unit (CMU) at the Presidency of the Council of Ministers with verification of the eligibility of households which are currently included in the NPTP database. Eligibility is assessed through a Proxy Means Test (PMT) which was formulated in coordination with the World Bank. InfoPro was commissioned to verify the data. Methodology: 30,000 CAPI Surveys conducted nationwide.Read more

USAID and Palladium: Final Performance Evaluation of the LIFE Project

A final evaluation was conducted of the Livelihood and Inclusive Financial Expansion (LIFE) project, administered by Palladium and financed by USAID. Methodology: Desk Research, focus groups, and an analytical report on the financial needs of microenterprises and alternative ways of local micro-financing.

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World Bank and MSI: Student Assessment Study

A study commissioned by Management System International and the World Bank, part of the R4R program. The aim of the Student Assessment Study was to understand student learning outcomes and student perception in Lebanese schools over two waves. The scope of work included sampling 145 schools and the assessment of 15,000 students. The data used in the study was gathered from public, private, and subsidized private schools, and classrooms including first and second shifts.
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UNICEF and AVSI: Vocational Training Program for Youth

A study commissioned by AVSI / UNICEF to identify sub-sectors, across eight criteria, with the highest capacity for employment and entrepreneurship of Syrian refugees and host community youth, females, and disabled individuals, taking into account their skill set. Methodology: 450 in-depth interviews with formal and informal businesses – with micro to small operations.
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UNICEF: Feedback from beneficiaries of the Immunization program

A study for UNICEF to assess the situation and needs of children under the age of five, the routine immunization service provided to them in different centers, the effectiveness and quality of the vaccination, as well as the parents’ recommendations and suggestions for improving the service to better suit their children’s needs. Methodology: Focus group discussions in various areas of Lebanon.
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IRI: Lebanon Polls Study

The International Republican Institute (IRI) was interested in obtaining public opinion data by conducting a multi-wave survey. The surveys assess public perceptions of government institutions, political parties, policy priorities, political participation, and political reform. Methodology: Nationwide CATI.

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UNICEF: Third Party Monitor for Winter Campaign

Study for UNICEF to field monitor and evaluate the quality of the winter clothing kits, problems with the sizes distributed, parents satisfaction with the distribution process, and children’s satisfaction with the items provided, Under the ‘Winterization Campaign’ undertaken by UNICEF. The study allowed immediate action to be taken to improve the campaign and to make long-term improvement in future campaigns. Methodology: 168 field visits.
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UNICEF: Assessment of the UNICEF MIN-ILA/ Reaching School Program

A study for UNICEF to hold focus group discussions with Syrian refugees who are receiving assistance from the Reaching School program and the MIN-ILA program. Methodology: Eight focus group. Explored the perception of beneficiaries with regard to programs’ design, monetization, and its impact on the lives of the beneficiaries. The focus groups also delved into recommendations and suggestions for improving the program to better suit refugees needs regarding the transportation of their children to school.
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UNICEF: Situational Analysis Survey

A study for UNICEF to conduct a Situational Analysis Survey among children and adolescents in order to assess their main concerns with regards to being healthy, safe, happy, and able to learn and be a productive member of society. The study also aimed at understanding their key social, interpersonal and physical elements as well as their feelings of well-being and inclusion in Lebanon. Methodology: 16 focus groups with Lebanese and Syrian children and adolescents whose aged ranged between seven and 17.
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UNICEF: Perception of Breast Feeding and Immunization

A study for UNICEF to assess the community perception towards Infant and Young Children Breast Feeding (IYCF) and the community perception towards Routine Immunization (RI). Methodology: Focus group discussions with Lebanese and Non-Lebanese mothers residing in Beirut and Mount Lebanon.
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UNICEF: End Violence Against Children

A study for UNICEF to assess caregivers’ and children’s understanding of childhood and violence against children and what can be done for improvement. The project is part of the END Violence initiative. Methodology: 42 focus group discussions with children and caregivers involving Lebanese, Syrians, and Palestinians.
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UNICEF: Third Party Monitoring of Polio Vaccination

A study for UNICEF to monitor the vaccination process for Polio undertaken by the Ministry of Public Health to cover 600,000 children under under-five years of age. During that campaign, children also received vaccines against measles and rubella as well as vitamin A which strengthened their immune systems. Lebanese and Syrian refugees were covered. Methodology:
Visits to 73 settlements and carried-out in-process monitoring during the immunization campaign, and monitors visited settlements to check vaccination status of children based on filling pre-defined checklist and provide an independent evaluation of quality based on finding missed children and reasons for non-vaccination.
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UNICEF: Sport and Humanitarian Assistance Project (SAHA)

A study for UNICEF to better understand the needs of Syrian refugees and host communities to whom it is providing assistance and to monitor improvements in social cohesion amongst adolescents and youth. It is part of The Sports and Humanitarian Assistance (SAHA) project involving Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian children aged 11-18 years and youth leaders aged between 18-25 years. It took place in Mount Lebanon, Tripoli, Akkar, Saida, and Tyre. The objective of SAHA was to bring children from different nationalities together to help ease the tensions between them and ensure social cohesion. Football was used as a tool to develop their social skills as well as their talent. Methodology: 36 focus groups equally divided between pre and post project.
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UNICEF: Third-Party Monitoring – Adolescent and Youth Program

A Third Party Monitoring Program for UNICEF, conducting an assessment of the Adolescent & Youth Program. The UNICEF youth and adolescents section intends to monitor the running programs and the work performance of UNICEF partners in community centers. Methodology: 40 visits to assess the youth programs implemented by the following UNICEF partners. Evaluate the following: Youth Basic Literacy and Numeracy (YBLN), Life skills training, Youth Led Initiative, Awareness Raising Sessions, Agricultural Courses, Non-formal vocational or competency-based skills training, Innovation skills training, Mentorship, Sports for Development training (S4D).
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UNICEF: Assessment of the THRIVE Program

A study for UNICEF to assess the THRIVE program under the UN’s Social Development Goals. The Ministry of Public Health launched a national action plan for children and mothers called THRIVE Lebanon, a four-year long cross-government commitment on four key areas of child development. As part of their efforts under THRIVE, UNICEF was in the process of developing a comprehensive communication strategy on health, nutrition, and wash. Prior to development, The objective of the study is an informative qualitative survey to gain a better understanding of the knowledge, practices, and behaviors among the Lebanese, Palestinian, and Syrian populations with regard to these topics. Methodology: 14 focus groups with mothers, fathers, and grandmothers of all three nationalities and 19 in-depth interviews with Lebanese, Palestinian, and Syrian medical professionals.
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USAID and Social Impact: Midterm Performance Evaluation for LIFE

A study for Social Impact, USAID’s monitoring arm. Conduct a mid-term performance evaluation of the LIFE project. An OECD DAC approach was utilized. Three criteria were assessed; Relevance, Effectiveness, and Sustainability, in addition to cross-cutting issues such as gender. Methodology: 28 focus groups were conducted with beneficiaries of the LIFE project.
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CHF: Workforce Gap Analysis

A survey to assess the labor market in general and across a select number of sub-sectors was commissioned by CHF Lebanon. Supply and demand of skills, job availability and labor supply were assessed, and mismatches identified. The study also assessed the challenges that youths are facing in gaining employment and how to prepare them for the labor market. SWOT analysis of all sub-sectors under study and proposal for a medium to long term course of action to be followed. Methodology: Desk research, focus groups with youths, a survey with a representative sample of private sector companies, in-depth interviews with recruitment agencies, technical and vocational institutes, and economic experts.
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Opinion Polling Surveys – Monthly Tracking

A monthly tracking of the standing of a political party. Methodology: Monthly CATI survey of 3,000 citizens. The interviews tracked Satisfaction with various political figures and parties, Security, Economy, Foreign relations, Communication, Strengths and weaknesses of various political figures.
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UNICEF: Third Party Monitoring Service – Syrian refugees

Third Party Monitoring for UNICEF to assess partners’ adherence to the proper methods in handling the Syrian refugee crisis, ensuring their following the scope of work, and evaluating the actual reach of resources allocated to the refugees to beneficiaries. Audit of 50 UNICEF partners and NGOs. More than 4,000 site visits nationwide.
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Gallup: Enterprise Survey

A survey for Gallup covering a broad range of business environment topics including access to finance, corruption, infrastructure, crime, competition, and performance measures. The study consisted of a nationwide corporate survey with 570 enterprises and provided statistically significant investment climate indicators that are comparable across countries. Assess the constraints to private sector growth and job creation. Build a panel of establishment-level data that will make it possible to track changes in the business environment over time. Collect in-depth information concerning the labor market situation of young people and quantify the relative ease of labor market entry. Identify critical issues in the youth employment challenge and understand blockages. Identify areas for policy and program additions or revisions.
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World Bank: Informal Enterprise Survey

A study for The World Bank. Assess informal enterprises and constraints to their growth. The study investigated the effect of the influx of the Syrian refugees on these businesses and the economy in general. Methodology: 1,000 interviews with informal businesses in Administrative Beirut, Tripoli, Zahle, and Saida. The owners of the informal businesses were Lebanese, Syrian, Palestinian, and Iraqi. The interviews investigated the location of informal businesses, their infrastructure, whether they have faced security issues or had to pay for protection, their sales activity and how it has been affected by the presence of Syrian entrepreneurs / business owners, their financial status and assets, their labor force and the percentage consisting of Syrian refugees, and whether they would consider registering their businesses. The data gathered assisted the World Bank with developing policies and programs that would enhance employment and economic growth. It also helped in populating indicators provided by the World Bank which would assist in comparison to other countries.
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OXFAM: Barriers to Women’s Participation in the National and Local Economy and their Utilization of Available Entrepreneurial Opportunities

A study for Oxfam to identify the obstacles that females face in becoming active members in the economy and the steps to be undertaken to open the doors to their becoming social entrepreneurs. The study focused on North Lebanon and Bekaa with a specific focus on the seven BADAEL areas under study. Methodology: 30 focus groups and 1,800 household interviews with Syrian refugees, Palestinian refugees, and vulnerable Lebanese, in addition to 33 key informant interviews with key stakeholders.
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Water Project Final Evaluation

A study for a NGO consortium by Gruppo di Volontariato Civile (GVC), Comitato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli (CISP), and Arab Countries Water Utilities Association (ACWUA). End-line evaluation of a three-year project (MyahCon) that strengthens infrastructural and managerial capacities of local water establishments in 12 communities in the North, Bekaa, and the South. Methodology: Key Informant Interviews with stakeholders, Focus Group Discussions with beneficiaries, and individual interviews.

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NGO target Study

Assessment of the brand image and positioning of a large NGO. Understanding the prevailing attitudes of individuals towards NGOs in general and the client specifically. The objective was to improve practices, improve the marketing strategy, and attract more supporters. Methodology: Nationwide telephone surveys.
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Schools Mapping and Assessment

Assess for the LORE Foundation the education sector in Lebanon and identify current gaps and opportunities and provide a well-rounded picture of the educational sector and its requirements. Identify dropout levels, profiles, and reasons. Study the number of teachers available across cycles, teacher availability and training. Assess school infrastructure and equipment. Identify and map all NGOs with programs for school dropouts. Methodology: mapping existing reports and identifying a general framework of the education system and the weaknesses or gaps. Interview a large representative sample of public, private, and private for free schools.
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USAID and Social Impact: Evaluation of Lebanon Industrial Value Chain

A study for Social Impact to assess a final performance evaluation of the Lebanon Industrial Value Chain Development (LIVCD) Project is a five year program funded by USAID. The study is to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the project by documenting critical successes as well as shortcomings of the project. Furthermore, the evaluation had to shed light on the approach and activities implemented under LIVCD with regards to achieving outputs, outcomes, and the sustainability of its interventions. Methodology: 28 focus groups split across the various value chains conducted under the program.
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SANAD: Needs of Small Businesses

A three-fold study for SANAD TAF on MSMEs and their needs for future financial and non-financial support: Assess the situation of small businesses and their challenges, to identify topics needing capacity building, and identify well-positioned local institutions able to provide financial and other support to MSMEs. Methodology: Desk research, Key Informant Interviews, and a survey with MSMEs in Greater Beirut and Tripoli.

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UNDP: Household Assessment of e-Waste

A household statistical assessment of e-waste in Lebanon to gain a better understanding of the sector and the necessary measures required to improve its status. Methodology: Nationwide household CATI.

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USAID and Social Impact: Economic Growth Assessment Study

An Economic Growth Assessment (EGA) study for Social Impact, USAID’s monitoring and program management arm. Assess economic sectors that USAID have supported as part of their program and emerging sectors which might be the focus of USAID in the future. The economic sectors assessed under the mandate were Agriculture / Agri-Food, Tourism and hospitality, Engineering/Construction, Finance, ICT, Environment, Renewable Energy, and Health. All initiatives undertaken by USAID were reviewed and compiled economic data pertinent to the economic sectors under study. Key Informant Interviews with 80 firms working in the targeted sectors and provided USAID with a report across each sector highlighting opportunities for economic growth and specific interventions to be undertaken.
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GIZ: Development of Deprived Urban Areas in North Lebanon

A study for Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) to assess the ‘Local Development Programme for Deprived Urban Areas in North Lebanon’ Programme, targeting vulnerable women and youth and aims to reduce social frustration linked to poverty and unemployment in Tripoli. A baseline and end line survey were conducted to measure the contribution of inter-communitarian exchange and program activities on positive attitude towards people of other communities. Methodology: CATI.

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Assessment of the Lebanon Our Story Intervention

A study to assess SAT-7’s ‘Lebanon Our Story’ program. It targets youth 15 to 25 years old, belonging to all religious or belief groups, including displaced Syrians, Palestinians, and Armenians. Assess success in reaching intended outcomes and objective. Methodology: CATI, Focus Group Discussions conducted with intended audiences.

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World Bank and GDS: Construction Value Chain

A study for the World Bank Group and Global Development Solutions (GDS) to conduct value chain analysis of the construction sector, especially residential building materials inputs. Assess the readiness of the sector to take advantage of the future reconstruction in Syria and determine employment creation opportunities. Survey access to finance among micro, small and medium enterprises. Methodology: Collecting background research and figures on the construction sector. Mapping stakeholders and entities to create a value chain. In total, 282 key players were interviewed.
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EU and GOPA: Promotion of social dialogue

A study for GOPA Consultants under the ‘Promotion of Social Dialogue in Lebanon’ project, part of the EU funded ‘Promotion of Social Justice’ program. The program is implemented by the Ministry of Labor (MOL), its Labor Inspection Department, the National Employment Office (NEO), and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The main purpose of the project is building the capacity of MOL, and Lebanese Social Partners and Civil Society to be promoters of social dialogue. Two sectors with high potential for growth and unmet demand with regards to a qualified workforce were therefore selected. In-depth interviews were conducted with 290 firms belonging to those two sectors.
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World Bank: Enterprise Survey

A survey for the World Bank covering business environment topics including access to finance, corruption, infrastructure, crime, competition, and performance measures. Methodology: Nationwide corporate survey with 532 enterprises. The study provided statistically significant investment climate indicators that are comparable across countries. It assessed constraints to private sector growth and job creation. The findings were also used to help policy makers better understand the business environment and identify, prioritize and implement reforms of policies and institutions that support efficient private economic activity.
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EU and LFA: Survey of the Lebanese Franchising Industry

A study with EU-financed TRANSTEC/EQUINOCCIO consortium in partnership with the Lebanese Franchising Association (LFA). Provide an overview of franchising in the country. Survey of the franchising industry and gather information on franchisors and local and international franchisees and estimate the contribution of franchising to the Lebanese economy, including 1,200 companies. The sectoral assessment included gathering information on employment, revenue and profitability, international expansion, financial conditions and constraints, franchisor-franchisee relationships, and outlook for the future. The study also assessed the barriers hampering growth and development in order to develop informed decisions on strategies that can grow this sector.
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World Bank: Impact of the 2019 Crisis on Private Enterprises in Lebanon

The study was commissioned by the World Bank. It aims to measure the impact of the crisis on key components of the private sector including sales, profitability, employment, finances, and expectations of the future. Two surveys at different intervals with the same panel of firms were planned to better understand the implications of the crisis, coping mechanisms utilized, and recovery path. Methodology: A quantitative survey with 532 firms.

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World Bank: Constraints of Women in Accessing Jobs

A diagnostic for the World Bank identifying main employment constraints faced by women in accessing jobs or becoming professionally active. The objective is to support the government by designing a National Jobs Creation Program. Perspectives of women and men were taken, including employers. Methodology: 32 focus groups and ten in-depth interviews.
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UNICEF: Data Analysis for VASYR and VARON

A study for UNICEF to analyze VASYR and VARON programs. Production of data outputs and indicators, Quality Assurance and data cleaning. Data processing using SPSS syntaxes and tabulations
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UNICEF: Assessment of the National Youth Tracer Program

An analysis for UNICEF to evaluate the medium-term impact of the skills training program of previously undertaken quantitative survey entailing data cleaning and processing, tabulation, and syntax and scripts. The exercise was part of the LCO Adolescent & Youth program targeted the poorest Lebanese and non-Lebanese youth and adolescents aged 15 years and above.
Data review was followed by ten focus groups to validate and gain an in-depth understanding of the results of the quantitative survey.

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Market Study for the Mahmoud Abbas Loan Program

A market study for the Mahmoud Abbas Foundation (MAF) to develop a student’s loan program for Palestinian refugees residing in Palestinian camps in Lebanon. Methodology: interviews with 250 Palestinian students, three focus groups, interviews with banks and micro-finance organizations. Designed several loan schemes and conducted feasibility studies in order to assist MAF in selecting the best loan program.
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UNDP: Survey on Municipal Police Perception

Police stations across 40 municipalities to assess the impact of the project and to better understand the needs of host communities and Syrian refugees in pilot and non-pilot municipalities. A perception survey composed of three phases (baseline survey, intermediary survey and end-line survey). Each phase is composed of a sample of 2,900 citizens and Syrian refugees. The study polled Attitude towards overall quality of life, Attitude towards the local government, Better understand issues pertaining to fear of crime, victimization, and security, Attitude towards the Internal Security Forces and the Army, Better understand how participants contact local security (reactive and proactive contact), and Attitudes towards rules of law and cooperation with the Police.
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Tripoli Special Economic Zone: The Knowledge and Innovation City Demand Forecast

Assess the feasibility of the Knowledge and Innovation City (KIC)concept at the Rashid Karame International Fair (RKF) in Tripoli, by the Tripoli Special Economic Zone. Methodology: Mapping of Potential Sub-Sectors, Concept Testing and Demand Analysis, and Demand Forecast. In-depth interviews were conducted with potential companies to assess their receptiveness towards the concept and their requirements of the KIC in terms of spacing, amenities, services, prices among other criteria.
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UNICEF: Winterization Cash Assistance Program Assessment

Assessment of the Winterization Cash Assistance Program provided by UNICEF and the Ministry of Social Affairs (MOSA). The study provided feedback on the relevance, effectiveness, and the quality of service provided by the program. The study covered the Bekaa, North, and Mount Lebanon. Methodology: –Focus Group discussions with beneficiaries, MOSA directors, coordinators, and social workers.Read more

ILO: Labor Market Demand Survey

The aim of the study conducted for the ILO was to assess demand in the Lebanese Labor market, to gain perspective of the private sector regarding labor demand and requirements which at a later stage became a part of their labor policy. The study provided in-depth information on recruitment methods and difficulties, payment policies, allowances and benefits provided, in addition to employee experience and education. Methodology: In-depth interviews with upper management at companies across the country and a number of their employees.Read more

SANAD: Outcomes of Micro-Credit Provision to Syrian Refugees

Study to determine needs for financial and non-financial services among Syrian refugees nationwide, commissioned by SANAD. Testing and verifying data compiled through a previous qualitative segment, as well as quantify estimates that were provided. Assessment of employment status, sources of income, business training, the financial services that are available to them, and their potential interest in taking a loan. The market size of creditworthy refugees was assessed. Methodology: representative sample of 640 refugees.
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UNDP: Assessment of Voter Registration Public Awareness Campaign

The Ministry of Interior and Municipalities (MOIM), with the support of UNDP LEAP, launched a multi-media awareness campaign which informed citizens of their right to inspect the voter register database. The study assessed the impact of the campaign on the general public and to identify the effectiveness of the campaign with regards to reachability and informing the public of their rights. The aim of the survey was to also learn from this exercise in order to better any future communication between the MOIM and the public. Methodology: Survey sample of prospective voters.
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Red Cross: Perception Study

A study for the Lebanese Red Cross and its key partners (ICRC, the International Federation of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent and The Norwegian Red Cross). Assess prevailing attitudes towards NGOs and donation patterns to be able to devise a new fundraising strategy. A survey evaluated both general public and private business perceptions, awareness levels of NGOs in general and the LRC specifically. Awareness drivers and communication channels were examined, individual and corporate donation patterns, including sums donated and frequency, in addition to the barriers and drivers to donating. Methodology: Nationwide Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI), in-depth interviews, and quantitative surveys of businesses.
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CGAP (World Bank) and Microfinance Center: Indebtedness Level of Microfinance Clients

Study commissioned by The Microfinance Center and CGAP to measure the indebtedness level of microfinance clients and factors leading to them. Recommendations on prevention. Methodology: qualitative (focus groups) and quantitative segments.
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Benchmarking Residential Real Estate

A study for a large regional holding group with specialties in retail, leisure, and real estate. The study aimed at understanding the market situation with regards to residential real estate and to benchmark the service charges and services of existing master community projects in comparison to a project that they are constructing. InfoPro extracted from its own Real Estate Databases, real estate projects that are similar to the project under study. In-depth interviews with the developers and facility community managers of these projects.
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UNICEF: Out-of-School Study

A study for UNICEF to uncover reasons of dropping out of Syrian refugee students enrolled in a schools run by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE). Methodology: five focus groups with Syrian refugee women who have children between six and 17 years of age which are out of school. The focus groups were held in various regions in Lebanon.
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UNICEF: Third Party Monitor for School Enrollment

A study for UNICEF to monitor the number of children attending school. Methodology: 951 visits to public schools were carried out.
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UNICEF: Third Party Monitoring: Cross-Border Entry Points

A study for UNICEF to monitor the vaccination process running in four cross border entry points on the Lebanese-Syrian border and the performance of a partner operating under the immunization program in those centers. Methodology: 112 ad hoc visits to monitor the vaccination process and the performance of the partner. In each of the visited centers, field monitors evaluated the number of passengers receiving vaccines, Inventory status (maintenance of vaccines temperature, availability of polio and measles vaccines, availability of red and blue vitamin A, the state of each vaccine vial), daily registration including number of individuals receiving each vaccine and number of pregnant women.
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UNICEF: Enrollment in Public Schools

A study for UNICEF to assess the enrolment procedure and quality of education at public schools, highlighting differences in the treatment of Lebanese and Syrian children, as well as differences between the first and second teaching shifts, and timing and effectiveness of the distribution of ‘school-in-a-box’ (SIB) kits, and the usefulness of the distributed items. Methodology: Seven focus groups with Lebanese and Syrian participants residing in various areas in Lebanon. Lebanese or non-Lebanese caregivers of children between three and 17 years of age who are enrolled in public schools.
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UNICEF: Wellbeing Baseline Survey

A study for e UNICEF Basic Literacy and Numeracy (BLN and ABLN) programs targeting children and adolescents. The main objective is to gain an understanding of the following: The knowledge, attitudes and social norms of caregivers with regards to children’s rights, early marriage, discipline methods and child labor and Understanding how the following impacts children’s wellbeing. Methodology: 1,000 Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews with caregivers of children and youth enrolled in the BLN and ABLN programs.
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UNEP: Capacity Building for Sustainable Public Procurement

A study for UNEP to identify opportunities for the contribution of public procurement to the achievement of national sustainable development targets. The expected results from the pilot project were to develop an SPP action plan and policy draft, creation of a website portraying SPP activities, and reporting on lessons learned. Methodology: Desk research and in-depth interviews with businesses, supply chain partners, and procurement officers in various ministries and experts in sustainable public procurement in local and international organizations. In collaboration with UNDP / UNEP / Institute of Finance, drafted a SPP Policy and Action Plan to achieve the targets and ensure that public procurement fully contributes to sustainable development and a green economy. A workshop was organized presenting the draft SPP policy plan.
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Ernst & Young: Overview of the SME Market

A study for Ernst & Young. Provide an overview of the SME market and available financing solutions. Mapping players who provide financing to SMEs and categorized by criteria such as number of employees, geographic coverage, specializations, types of financial services provided, client profile, and sectors covered. InfoPro then conducted in-depth interviews with several of the players in order to obtain more detailed insights of the financing solutions available to SMEs, in addition to information on the conditions, interest rates, commissions and charges, limits and durations of the debt instruments available. In-depth interviews with 150 SMEs.
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World Bank: Women Entrepreneurship in Formal Private Sector: A Gender Focused Investment Climate Assessment (ICA)

The aim of the study for the World Bank was to assess women’s entrepreneurship in Lebanon and the obstacles faced by women working in the private sector. The study assessed gender differences regarding firm level productivity and simultaneously provided information on company structure, finances, and labor. Methodology: In-depth interviews with the general managers of female owned businesses.Read more

UNDP CEDRO: Industry Potential and Job Creation in Renewable Energy

A study for UNDP’s CEDRO program to examine the status of renewable energy projects, the situation of the industrial sector with regards to the manufacturing, assembly, and import of renewable energy systems (RES), and the physical and economic feasibility of renewable energy systems that can be implemented locally. Methodology: Review available documentation on renewable energy, nationally and internationally. In-depth interviews with stakeholders to identify current projects in the pipeline, support available, and the potential for renewable energy. Mapping players involved in the assembly, manufacturing, and import of renewable energy systems. Companies that import and usually also assemble RES, as well as RES manufacturers were interviewed to assess the supply and demand of renewable energy systems, the availability or lack of labor with know-how in renewable energy, and the available infrastructure among other issues. A review of all renewable energy systems and their economic feasibility was carried out followed by an assessment of the current situation versus requirements across all renewable energy facets.
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The Effect of Foreign Labor and Minimum Wage on the Labor Market

A study initiated by InfoPro. Salary comparisons, benefits and social allowances. Real variations identified in salaries of foreign vs. local labor across skill sets. Reaction of company owners to an increase in the minimum wage and its quantitative impact on business. Methodology: 350 in-depth interviews with companies, economy, and labor experts.
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IFC: Business Registration Simplification Study

A study for the International Finance Corporation (IFC). A representative sample of companies in the areas of Beirut and Mount Lebanon were surveyed, to support the government in its efforts to simplify the country’s business start-up regulations by improving and streamlining the registration procedures. Assess and evaluate the processes in place and arrive at workable recommendations that would ultimately modernize, upgrade and introduce best practices. Identify measure to streamline, simplify and automate the business registration process through the Commercial Registry (CR). Interviews were conducted with lawyers and business owners who had registered their own companies. Determining the obstacles faced by the private sector in start-up business registration and daily procedures, assisted in gauging overall satisfaction with government processes, and helped pinpoint areas that required reform to be implemented by the Ministry of Economy and Trade (MoET). Site assessment of all Commercial Registries. Assessment of the current set-up of the Commercial Registries by interviewing the general director, Head Judge of the Commercial Registry, and the chief clerk across the various Mohafaza’s, in addition to more than 20 lawyers in order to map the registration process and recommend a more streamlined process.
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World Bank: Productivity and Investment Climate Assessment Survey

Two studies for the World Bank. The objective is to understand conditions in the investment climate and their effect on firm-level productivity for the private sector. The goal of the studies was to advise the Lebanese government on ways to change policies that are hindering the growth of the private sector and develop new policies that support productivity growth. Interviews were conducted 953company managers. The sectors covered for this study were the following: Food and beverage, furniture, textile, trade, services, construction, and hotels. The studies delved into the following: Evaluation of productivity level of businesses, Assess investment climate constraints to the company, Identify investment in capacity, innovation and learning, Identify obstacles with respect to infrastructure and services, Evaluate relations between businesses and the government, Evaluate the labor status of businesses.
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Salary Scale for Micro-Finance firm

A study for a large Micro-Finance Institution (MFI) to evaluate its salary scale for a set number of job positions. Identified direct competitors, defined job positions and descriptions. Investigated financial and non-financial rewards such as benefits and allowances, including education, transportation, housing, meals, medical insurance, profit sharing schemes and other benefits. Working conditions and discrepancies in providing benefits and allowances across skill set and education were also assessed. A new salary scale was presented.
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Salary Scale for local NGO

A salary scale study for a large local NGO. Investigation of benefits and allowances in similar environments including education, transportation, housing, meals, medical insurance, profit sharing schemes among other pertinent benefits. Working conditions and discrepancies in providing benefits and allowances across skill set and education were also assessed. Proposed a new salary scale.
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Retail, Hospitality, Office, and Real Estate Assessment

A study for an international commercial developer involved in a joint venture to develop a mixed-use project in a suburb of Beirut. The client in developing the proposed site wanted to assess the feasibility of the project and the various real estate segments under consideration: office, residential, leisure, hospitality, and retail. In order to assess the optimal mix for the location, InfoPro carried-out a supply and demand analysis. The aim of analysis was to provide an economic overview of Lebanon and the Greater Beirut area, the competition level across the various segments under study, the success / failings of the competition, demand drivers and generators, preferred features and facilities, in addition to new and potential development projects currently under construction. Methodology: Interviews with real estate developers, brokers, and experts. Provided an overview of the supply and demand in Greater Beirut specifically for high-end projects. Assessment of street front shopping hubs and malls including performance data by category, tourist data gathered through desk research and interviews with tour operators in order to evaluate demand across various hotel categories. InfoPro also assessed their perception of impact of future supply on hotel ARR, RevPAR, and occupancy. The market assessment of the segments under study allowed the client to assess the most optimal mix to be included in location.
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Salary Scale for German NGO

A study for The German Development Cooperation (GIZ) involving a comprehensive market review and analysis of salaries by benchmarking with other similar organizations in the Lebanese market. Methodology: Revision of job descriptions, collecting information from similar organizations, interviews and match the benchmarked job across the different levels of responsibility in the client’s salary scale, matching between actual service contract salaries and positions and those of the comparators, recommended new salary scale.
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LTA: Administrative Corruption

A study for the Lebanese Transparency Association. Survey of 700 companies to address corruption in the public sector. Identification of private sectors view of corruption, Perception of the legal system, Challenges in procurement with private and public sector entities, Evaluate the effect of bureaucracy and state intervention in the firm, Perception of the private sector of their influence on lobbying.
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InfoPro Salary Scale Omnibus

A Salary Scale Omnibus devised by InfoPro to assess salaries, benefits, allowances, and working conditions provided by companies in Lebanon across a large number of sectors.
InfoPro followed a multi-faceted methodology: Determine comparators across each sector, preparing a matching template containing job titles, job descriptions, in-depth interviews with selected entities. Cash and non-cash benefits are mapped separately.
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Market Analysis for the Shouf Biosphere Reserve

A study for the Shouf Biosphere Reserve (SBR) to provide it with an overview of the organic and high quality market including the most prominent players and those that can be considered as competitors, market demand and supply, barriers to trade, and market requirements and regulatory framework needed for local and export markets. SBR, which offers around 82 high quality products, harvested by farmers and five cooperatives located in the surrounding areas was looking to focus on products with high potential for growth and job creation. The study provided a macro-economic overview of the organic high quality market, a detailed overview of the agriculture activity Shouf, and (3) a review of fair trade practices. Methodology: Mapping stakeholders and interviews with them. Interviews with 170 small-scale farmers.
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Assessment of a Chocolate Coffee Shop Concept

A study for an investor considering starting up a high-end chocolate coffee shop in Ashrafieh. The outlet was to import high-end chocolate and also to offer drinks such as coffee and tea with pastries and biscuits. The study gauged the market feasibility of the concept by assessing the competition in the area, prospective client profile, types of chocolate most in demand and upcoming trends, customer habits of high end chocolate and coffee shops. Methodology: Retailers in Ashrafieh were mapped area and gathered key information from those considered to be potential competitors. In-depth interviews with most prominent outlets. Focus groups provided insights on client habits and preferences.
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Competition Analysis of Real Estate Assets Management and Valuation

A study for a Holding real estate company. The company was interested in developing a software related to Real Estate Assets Management and Valuation. The study assessed the following: The competition in the global and local Real Estate Portfolio Management Software market, the offering of the competition, products available in the Lebanese market. A mapping of the competition was conducted through desk research and in-depth interviews.
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Market Overview and Taste Test

Pre- and Post-launch of a new Halloumi cheese brand into the local market. Methodology: Taste test with consumers and identification of usage and attitude of consumers, Brand Image, Advertising recall.

Market Overview of a food brand

Study reasons for underperformance of a well-established food brand. Investigating the detected problem, by acquiring market information regarding the assessment of the product likeability and positioning. A brand positioning assessment was conducted to gain consumer feedback. Methodology: Survey with 300 consumers.
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Package Re-Design Study

Assist a paper tissue manufacturer to select the most preferred package design. Assess the usage and attitude of consumers of sanitary napkins. Methodology: Several focus groups.
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Market Study on the Soap and Detergents Market

Assessing the size and trends of various types of soap and detergents in the market in addition to gauging consumers’ general awareness and usage of the various brands. Methodology: A consumer behavior survey with a nationwide household survey and a market overview entailing a supply/demand assessment by interviewing distributors, local manufacturers and purchase managers of major supermarket chains.

Staff performance for a Medium Sized Bank

The main objective of the study was to evaluate the bank’s branch appearance and performance of staff members. The bank’s staff were evaluated through scenario simulations to assess their knowledge of the various products and services offered. Methodology: Data collection was based on face-to-face and telephone mystery shopper interviews with the customer service officers, sales agents, and telesales personnel. Four mystery shopper waves were conducted on a quarterly basis over a period of one year.

Marketing Plan for High Value Agricultural Products

An agricultural property management company that specializes in producing high quality stone and pome fruits in Central Bekaa was selling its produce to the wholesale market at bulk market prices that seriously undervalue the uniqueness of their premium range of goods. InfoPro developed a marketing plan for the branded produce and investigated opportunities in the market that can be targeted to realize a higher return for its value added products. Methodology: Desk review and face-to-face in-depth interviews with market players and the purchasing managers / owners of Hotels, restaurants, specialty stores, catering businesses, and large supermarkets

Market Assessment and Feasibility of New Automobile Brand

A market study for a car importer looking to introduce a new brand to the market. The study included the evolution of the automotive market in Lebanon, and a comprehensive competitive analysis. A financial study was conducted in order to estimate the feasibility of the models under study.
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Concept Test and Competition Analysis of a real estate mixed project

A real estate supply and demand analysis to assess the optimal mix of the types of residential units and a projection of their respective absorption rates. The client intended to develop a four-season mountain resort featuring hotels, international ski slopes and a golf course and other recreational and sports activities. The aim of the analysis was to assist the master planners in the assessment of the unit mix ratio and ultimately in the design phasing. The mandate entailed identifying the demand drivers for the various types of complementary businesses likely to be located in the resort, the retail categories that they belong to, and their incentive requirements and potential size of operation in order to forecast the retail mix allocation in the project master plan. Methodology: Desk research exercise, in-depth interviews with government ministries, tour operators located in Arab countries, hotel / resort directors and managers, prominent retailers, and restaurant owners.
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Assessment of Retail Real Estate

A study for a large real estate company to assess leasing pricing strategy for Saifi Village, Beirut Souks, and the Foch / Allenby area. The project entailed to provide an overview of malls considered to be competition including retail mix, units sizes, foot fall among other pertinent issues. Identify the rental rates for retail real estate in competitive malls. Identify the rental rates of street front outlets located in Foch/Allenby, Park Avenue, and Saifi neighborhood. Gather and validate relevant data. Methodology: Desk research, Mapping outlets at competitive malls, In-depth Interviews with mall developers, and In-depth Interviews with retailers.
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EU and CISP: Secondary Analysis – Improving Access to Safe Drinking Water for Lebanese and Syrian Refugee Communities in Northern Lebanon

A study for The Comitato lnternazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli (CISP), an EU funded project: ‘Improving access to safe drinking water for Lebanese and Syrian refugees communities in Northern Lebanon’. A baseline ‘Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP)’ and ‘Willingness to Pay’ survey was conducted by CISP among a representative sample of the target population to assess their actual interest in the project and their willingness to pay for the water supply system. Analysis of collected data, produce and present a final report for the baseline survey.
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Market Share and Perception Analysis of a Lighting Solutions Company

Market share study for a large lighting solutions company. Issues addressed: Positioning versus the competition, Brand perception, Selection process utilized in deciding on suppliers of lighting systems, Message to be communicated, SWOT, identification of unmet needs. Methodology: In-depth interviews with contractors / developers, architects, and electrical engineers and consultants.
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Market Assessment of Student Housing

A study for a client interested in developing a student housing project in the Administrative Beirut area and wanted to assess supply and demand of student housing across both university dormitories and furnished apartments. Methodology: Desk research, in-depth interviews with the owners of furnished apartments, and in-depth interviews with university officials responsible for dormitories in the Administrative Beirut area. The interviews helped identify the specifications of available supply, rental rates, marketing efforts undertaken, occupancy rates, supply and demand trends in the market, in addition to other pertinent information. This enabled the client to reach conclusions as to the feasibility of the project and the specifications of the furnished apartments most in demand.
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Usage and Attitude Survey of Petrol Stations

Brand image and positioning study for a network of gas stations. Understand current market position and the consumer behavior. Methodology: large sample household survey. The survey helped identify awareness level and perception of petrol stations in general and the client in specific. It estimated the market share of the various petrol stations, the process utilized by consumers in selecting a gas station to deal with, and other pertinent issues.
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Location Analysis for a Small Sized Bank

The client was considering the option of opening two new branches. Four potential locations were assessed, of which two were selected by the client for further evaluation. A supply and demand analysis of banking activities was conducted. A detailed profile of the residential sector as well as the corporate activity in the areas understudy was provided. In-depth information on respondents’ usage and attitude towards the banking sector and available market opportunities were assessed. Methodology: Desk research, mapping of businesses and retail outlets, face-to-face household interviews, and corporate interviews.

Location Analysis for a Large Sized Bank

The client was interested in assessing the feasibility of opening a new branch. Two potential locations were assessed – Aley and Rabieh. A detailed profile of the residential sector as well as the corporate activity in the areas understudy were assessed. Methodology: Desk research, mapping of businesses and retail outlets, face-to-face household interviews, and corporate interviews.

Location Analysis for a Medium Sized Bank

The client was considering the option of opening a new branch and relocating an existing one. In order to assess the commercial viability of the endeavor, a location analysis study was conducted for the areas of Hazmieh and Ashrafieh. The client was provided with a detailed profile of the residential and commercial segments in order to reveal respondents’ usage and attitude towards the banking sector. The population profile the areas under study were also benchmarked to the profile of the Greater Beirut population in order to compare key profile differences. Methodology: Desk research, mapping of businesses and retail outlets, face-to-face household interviews, and corporate interviews.

CNRS: Survey on Innovation in the Industrial and ICT Sectors

A study to assess innovation in the Lebanese industrial sector and the ICT sector commissioned by The National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS) in collaboration with the World Bank. The objective was to revitalize these sectors by assessing innovative measures being carried out. Methodology: Enterprise survey.Read more

Bank Area Analysis

Area analysis to assess the commercial viability of a bank branch in Metn. Methodology: Desk Research, Ground Scanning, Traffic Flow Analysis, and In-depth interviews with area real estate brokers.Read more

Price Assessment of Retail Real Estate

A study for a mall operator interested in assessing the supply and demand for retail real estate across the main shopping malls and shopping souks. On the supply front, the client wanted to investigate the rental rates charged, rent evolution, the facilities and services provided, footfall, and the leasing terms. On the demand front, they want to assess the preferences of retailers with regards to the retail mix, outlet sizes, facilities / services provided, and any issues which they considered problematic at their current location. Methodology: interviews with 58 retailers. The study covered outlets across a variety of categories. The findings helped management re-assess their leasing strategy and retail mix.
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Developing Information and Communications Technology Core Indicators

A study for National ICT Strategy Coordination Office (Prime Minister’s office), OMSAR and UNDP to developed a National ICT Strategy that aims to “Establish Lebanon as the main hub for e-services, creativity and innovation, telecom and internet services”. To support the implementation of this initiative, the Lebanese Presidency of the Council of Ministers established the in July 2010, as the body responsible for designing and managing the implementation mechanism for the National ICT Strategy. One of the priority projects of The National ICT Strategy Coordination Office was the collection of ICT statistics recognized internationally and used to place Lebanon in the various international indexes. Methodology: Survey with 2,000 households and 500 enterprises nationwide. Assess telephone, computer, and internet penetration of households and businesses, and Internet activities. Official core indicators were developed.
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Retail Real Estate Market Study

A study for an international client planning to develop a large mall in a suburb of Beirut. The client wished to gain in-depth information on the market supply and demand of retail real estate in Administrative Beirut and Mount Lebanon. In order to reach the client’s objectives, Methodology: Desk research, face-to-face interviews with consumers residing in the catchment area under study, and conducting in-depth interviews with retailers, retail real estate developers, and real estate brokers. Identified the population distribution and growth in the catchment area under study. Identified the shopping patterns of consumers and also their retail expenditure which in combination with the desk research. Forecast the retail expenditure of the entire catchment area. Insights such as preferences of amenities and services to be provided by malls, the optimal outlet size for their retail category, preferred neighboring outlets which allowed the client to decide on the optimal retail mix. Identify the price paid per square meter in malls and in street front outlets which allow the client to devise their price strategy.
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Italian Trade Commission: Market Assessment of the Agri-Food Sector in Lebanon and Cyprus

A study for the Italian Trade Commission to formulate a general overview of the agri-food (food and beverage) sector including major players and their distribution system. Identify opportunities for further growth and highlight the position of Italian food products in the Lebanese and Cypriot markets. Methodology: Desk research and in-depth interviews with experts and local companies in both countries. A total 50 in-depth interviews with stakeholders in the agri-food sector, importers of foodstuff, and supermarkets in both Lebanon and Cyprus. The interviews helped identify the main Italian products on the market, their strengths and weaknesses, and suggestions to improve their positioning. The interviews with large supermarket chains also captured consumers’ eating habits and trends in the agri-food sector.
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Bank Brand Image and Perception Study

Assessment of individuals’ awareness of a bank brand including awareness, perception, and competing bank brands. Methodology: qualitative and quantitative entailing focus groups, CATI interviews. The bank relied on the study to assess their image and formulate their communication strategy.
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UNDP: Business Plan for a Job Creation Center

The UNDP and the Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development (HF) were planning to create a Job Creation Center in Beirut. InfoPro’s mission was to conduct a business plan for the establishment and sustainability of the Job Creation Center that includes a market assessment, a feasibility study, and an implementation plan. Methodology: In-depth interviews were conducted with the UNDP / Hariri Foundation team and recruitment agencies in the Greater Beirut area. A survey was also conducted with youth in search of employment.Read more

Brand Traker

A syndicated four waves per year survey monitoring the performance of banks on Brand Usage and Attitude, Advertising campaign and slogan recall and impact, Brand image and perception, Client satisfaction, Loyalty, and switching intention.
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Salary Scale for UNDP

A study for UNDP to implement a new salary scale. Assess the Service Contract (SC) modality which is used to hire individuals for activities which are not part of the central functions of the work program. Comparisons made with bilateral and NGO communities.

Methodology: Draw list of comparable employers, assess the effect of education and years of experience on salary variation for each job position. Data on working hours, annual leaves, and additional allowances and benefits (cash and non-cash) were also gathered. Mapping all cash and non-cash benefits provided by employers and quantified all allowances and benefits. Employer interviews. Define salary scales that fall within 50th percentile.
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MIT Enterprise Forum Impact Survey

A study for the MIT Enterprise Forum (MITEF) of the Pan Arab region, a promoter of entrepreneurship and innovation. The forum, in partnership with Abdul Latif Jameel Community Initiatives, organizes on a yearly basis an MIT Enterprise Forum Arab Startup Competition. The Competition brings in a total of 2,000 to 4,000 applications on a yearly basis. The survey measured the impact the Arab Start-Up Competition Quantify a set of key performance indicators related to the competition semi-finalists. The indicators developed assessed the following: Number of ideas turned into startups as a result of the Competition, Number of startups that are still in business to date, Number of Full-Time vs. Part-Time jobs created, Number of clients acquired, Market Size, Average annual revenue, Profile of people on the team, Percentage of females with a leading role, Number of startups that are no longer in business, Benefit from the Competition: trainings, business coaching, media exposure, prize money, networking, connections, MIT brand helped them raise (additional) capital, win other competitions, get incubation, get acceleration, media coverage, etc. Methodology: Interview a pool of semi-finalists and applicants to the MIT EF Arab Startup Competition.
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Relief International: ICT Business Sector in Rural Areas

Study for Relief International to assess the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) business sector in rural areas. Explore demand and supply for ICT techniques and services and the role of microcredit in supporting and boosting the sector. The study offered guidelines to develop microloan products targeting ICT businesses, small businesses and ICT graduates in rural areas. Methodology: Desk research identified vocational training centers which have ICT specialization and identified small businesses and small ICT businesses in the areas under study. Field survey with 352 graduates and senior students selected from 114 IT academies, vocational training centers, Cisco networking academies, and Microsoft certification centers to identify the types of certifications that they have and whether they intend to open businesses, financing sources and budgets that they would require, and the types of collateral that they have and that would help them finance their ICT needs. In-depth interviews with the owners of small businesses to identify recruitment needs for ICT personnel and lacking skills.
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Market Study for a Consumer Electronics Retailer

A study for a large retailer of consumer electronics to assess the feasibility of an international brand of electronics store opening in a large retail center, and to gain in-depth information on the consumer media and electronics market across six product categories. Methodology: quantitative survey across the potential catchment area of 2,400 household interviews. Assessed individuals shopping behavior and patterns, consumer spending habits across the various product categories, as well as household income and its disposable income component.
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IT Company Valuation

A company specialized in providing professional services and software solutions to the telecom sector, commissioned InfoPro to design a business plan that enables its five-year expansion strategy. The business plan included a strategy to acquire new potential customers in existing markets and enter new markets, expansion of human resource assets to meet the needs of to their actual, up-coming projects and opportunities, and a comprehensive feasibility study. Methodology: Desk review and face-to-face interviews with staff members and other market players.

UNIDO: Technical Barriers to Trade

Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) have a direct implication on the exports of the food manufacturing industry. An initial study was commissioned by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) updated four years later. The study was carried out to assess the effects of TBTs. Recommendations for both the public and private sector on how to address policy and technical issues that will eventually limit export constraints faced by the sector were also provided. Methodology: In-depth interviews with companies in the food manufacturing sector.Read more

BankTrak

A syndicated yearly retail-banking study and database. A nationwide sample of 5,000 households to banks identify their regional strengths and weaknesses in comparison to the competition, assess the performance of their products and services, identify product development potential, the strength of their communication and how there are perceived by the general population. BankTrak also helps clients assess their brand health and specific issues to improve.
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Taxi Concept Test Study for a Large Consultancy Firm

A consultancy firm has a client who was considering the potential of setting up a taxi company in the Greater Beirut area. The client was interested in testing several concepts. Methodology: 1,500 street intercept interviews conducted with current taxi / taxi service users and car owners. A survey was also conducted with 75 five star, four star, and three star hotels.

Entertainment Center Feasibility Study

The client was planning to introduce a new entertainment center targeting children and adolescents in a prominent mall. The main objective of the study was to assess the feasibility, receptiveness and potential market demand for of such a concept. Methodology: Intercept interviews with individuals with children and a financial feasibility plan across alternative scenarios.

Concept Testing of Short-Term Loans

The financial institution client wanted to test the utilization of very short-term loans among low-income potential users. The main objective of the study was to determine the concept’s penetration as well as to test some of its potential features. The study surveyed individuals who fall into the client’s target market. Methodology: The study consisted of face-to-face interviews with non-bankerized respondents.

Taxi Concept Test Study for a Large Consultancy Firm

The client was considering the potential of setting up a taxi company in the Greater Beirut area. The client was interested in testing several concepts. Methodology: 1,500 street intercept interviews conducted with current taxi / taxi service users and car owners. A survey was also conducted with 75 five star, four star, and three star hotels.

Customer Satisfaction Survey for a Medium Sized Bank

The study evaluated clients’ satisfaction with the bank’s products / services, quality of service, and employees. The study also assessed the satisfaction of clientele dealing with competitive banks. The study findings helped establish a comparative customer satisfaction assessment of the
bank under study and its competition. Methodology: a combination of face-to-face and Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI).

Customer Satisfaction Survey for a Large Insurance Group

A large insurance group was interested in carrying-out a customer satisfaction survey in order to assess the satisfaction of their clientele with the services that they are providing. The study measured clients’ satisfaction based on several evaluation criteria such as: Performance, service, credibility, and reliability. The measure of loyalty and switching intentions were also incorporated in the study design. Methodology: Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) with the group’s clientele.

Impact of the Strengthened Euro on the Lebanese Economy

The objective was to assess the changes the private sector faced due to the appreciation of the Euro. The study was undertaken in collaboration of the Ministry of Finance. The findings were compiled into a publication. Methodology: Desk research and in-depth interviews with companies operating in the country’s top trading sectors, focused on foodstuffs, textiles, pharmaceuticals, cars, and petroleum.

Euro Med Agreement Awareness Study

The main objective of the study which was funded by the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Foundation was to gain qualitative insight from companies in the trade sector on their awareness of the Euro-Med agreement, their perceptions of its advantages and disadvantages as well its potential benefits. Methodology: In-depth face-to-face interviews with company general managers selected from a list of small, medium, and large importers and exporters currently operating in the Lebanese market.

World Bank: PSD Flagship Report

The objective of the study was to identify the reasons behind the low level of private investment to GDP, firm-level productivity, economic diversification, and exports of non-traditional products in Lebanon by focusing on the environment faced by firms in the region, the role of public policy in improving it, and the way in which the political economy of State-business relations may be hindering progress on reforms. InfoPro assisted the World Bank in creating a road map on how to maximize the contribution of the private sector to future growth and job creation. Methodology: Desk review and face-to-face interviews with experts on a variety of topics.Read more

ANERA: Mapping and Assessing Needs of Existing Rural Hospitality Businesses

A study for American Near East Refugee Aid (ANERA) on rural tourism and alternative lodgings. It aimed to expand, solidify and institutionalize the rural hospitality infrastructure and encourage activities of responsible tourism. Methodology: Mapping lodgings countrywide. Face-to-face interviews with 60 lodging owners. Assessed the conditions of the buildings and grounds to see whether they conform to statutory and safety requirements. Mapped the services provided by the guesthouses and the support services available in the direct vicinity of the lodgings. Capacity and occupancy rates as well as booking methods and prices were established. Assessed the marketing tools utilized by the lodgings and the linkages with other local attractions. The information gathered allowed to formulate a gap analysis which helped identify the volume and high level boundaries of work needed on the ground to improve the physical infrastructure, service quality, and ancillary services of the sector.
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Satisfaction Survey of Beneficiaries of the Institut des Finances Basil Fuleihan (IoF)

A study for IoF under the Transparency and Accountability Grant (AMIDEAST). Assess the effectiveness of IoF activities and its services including trainings, publications, and library services. Methodology: 1,500 CATI interviews and 21 in-depth interviews.
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Citizen Satisfaction Survey at the Ministry of Finance

A study for The Ministry of Finance (MoF) to assess the satisfaction of the public towards their dealings with the various ministry departments and bureaus. Assessments of services provided by employees, infrastructure, websites.

Methodology: In-depth interviews with all department heads of the Ministry of Finance and face-to-face interviews with citizens who have dealt with the MoF.

This phase would allow InfoPro to structure the survey for the second phase – the citizen satisfaction survey. For the citizen satisfaction survey, InfoPro interviewed a sample of 2,000 individuals who have dealt with the Ministry of Finance on a prior occasion. The interviews delved into the services that they usually utilize, problems / obstacles that they have faced, suggested improvements, in addition to other pertinent issues. The Ministry was then provided with short and long term recommendations that would enhance their services.
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Mystery Shopping for fashion retailer

Mystery shopping research for a group operating varied clothing retail stores. Evaluate the customer service personnel and outlet appearance at more than 20 outlets. Outlets were checked for cleanliness and tidiness, and employees for dress code, hygiene, attitude and behavior, sales approach, ability to evaluate clients’ needs, knowledge, and cross-selling techniques.
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Mystery Shopping for a Bank

A study for a large bank to evaluate branch appearance and measure staff performance, and benchmark progress over time. Evaluation of external and internal site, staff appearance, waiting time, personnel performance and attitude, customer care assessment, communication skills, product knowledge, and cross-selling skills. Evaluation of the call centers and telephone operators at all branches. provided the bank with the strengths and weaknesses of each branch understudy and allowed the client to track the progress and regression of their performance over time. Methodology: face-to-face interviews with the bank’s customer service personnel or front desk clerks and telephone mystery shopper interviews which were conducted with the call center and the telesales operators of all branches. More than 40 branches were visited twice each and contacted once per wave.
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World Bank: Business Survey of War Losses, Damages, and Needs for Recovery

A study for the World Bank. The aim of the study was to identify the indirect and direct damages incurred by individuals and the private sector post the July 2006 war and to prioritize their current needs so as to be able to formulate a recovery and rehabilitation plan. The study assessed the impact on businesses and included in-depth interviews with the owners of the biggest businesses that were directly targeted during the war, in-depth interviews with a sample of small enterprises located in war-affected area, and in-depth interviews with a panel of companies selected from the Productivity and Investment Climate Assessment survey. Assessed the economic impact of the war on businesses belonging to a variety of sectors and their current and future needs. It included in-depth interviews with key business leaders in a variety of organizations and sectors, in addition to a compilation of common needs across various sectors. Assessment of the needs of households and the displaced. Methodology: interviews with 400 SME’s, 2,000 individuals, and 50 in-depth interviews with large businesses.
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Mystery Shopper for Electronics Retailer

A study commissioned by a network of household electronics to assess outlets and personnel performance at all branches. The elements included: External and internal premises, Employee appearance and hygiene, Customer care, Behavior and attitude, and Technical knowledge. Methodology: two waves per year.
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Potential for a Technology, Industrial, and Research Center

A survey for the Professional Computer Association (PCA) to analyze the technology sector to assess the technology industries most potentially suitable for a Technology, Industrial, and Research Center (BETZ), to assess the feasibility of the concept. Methodology: A sectoral analysis of the technology sector in Lebanon and a qualitative overview of the technology sector. Desk research and based on in-depth face-to-face interviews with experts and professionals in the technology sector in order to establish a SWOT analysis of BETZ. The study provided key success factors, SWOT analysis, and a matrix defining the sectors and respective technologies within each sector that shall be developed.
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Outlet Relocation Assessment

Study an underperforming location of a retail specialty network. Market demand conditions in the sector in the outlets’ catchment area. Methodology: Consumer demand survey with affluent individuals residing in the outlets’ catchment area. Measure the key image variables for loyalty and regular visitation. Identify the perception of the outlet in comparison to its competitive universe and pinpoint brand strengths and weaknesses.
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Survey Assessing Bank Customers Interaction Channels

Assess bank customers’ interaction channels and customers’ expectations. Evaluation of changes in customers’ lifestyles and handling of financial transactions, and their disposition to adopting e-banking services. Methodology: face-to-face quantitative surveys with individuals, professionals, and micro, small, and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs). Assessment of demographic and psychographic profiles, banking habits, interaction points used, satisfaction levels. The survey investigated the products / services that customers have and their interest in adopting new ones. The findings of the surveys assisted the bank in developing a five-year strategy.
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Advertisement Tracker Study

Pre and post advertisement study. Each wave measured awareness and perception, benchmarked versus competitors, and progress tracking on a quarterly basis. The study covered the areas surrounding branches.