A comparative analysis of approaches to apply the sustainable livelihoods framework to do impact assessment in ICT4D

The use of ICT to promote sustainable development, whether socioeconomic or human development, has increased over the past few decades. However, there is a need to ensure that ICT4D projects achieve their intended development outcomes. The Sustainable Livelihoods (SL) Framework provides a possible means to measure the impact of development programs/projects, by focusing on less disadvantaged household's vulnerabilities, assets, processes, structures and livelihood outcomes. The development agencies DFID, CARE and UNDP each have a different version of the SL framework with which to assess developmental impact. This paper discusses and compares the three approaches that are available to apply the SL framework. The paper concludes with a reflection on the three approaches, and recommendations for applying the SL framework in ICT4D.