Overcoming difficulties with outsourcing in partnership extension models: lessons learned from TOPCROP West

Abstract

By 1999 TOPCROP West had grown to provide extension services to ~86 farm development groups in 5 years. However, its continued development and effectiveness was dependent on an increase in the level of agribusiness involvement as providers for TOPCROP West groups. Was this lack of involvement due to expansion issues or was there a problem in the partnership extension model? After all, this model had only been in wider use since the early 1990s.

The current research confirmed suspicions that rapid expansion was the most important factor when combined with outsourcing of service provision. Initial informal management systems had been outgrown and were not working effectively for all stakeholders. More formalised management systems were needed to ensure all stakeholders were communicating on a regular basis to enable expectations to be understood and met. In addition, systems were needed to provide feedback to quickly identify and address problems and opportunities.