Direction 1:  Hard Services in Mshini Wam

If the process of in-situ upgrading, with regards to reblocking in Mshini Wam, is finishing up upon arrival, the team can support the continued upgrading of other facilities in the community. Water and sanitation will most likely be the natural second step in this upgrading process. In collaboration with the co-researchers and the community, the team can help to facilitate a discussion to understand the needs and wants of the community in the way of water and sanitation services. Although the government has promised one tap and toilet per home, this may or may not be the most effective solution to the water and sanitation issue within this particular community. It is crucial to consider alternatives with the input of the community, NGOs and government, while also using background research to bring new perspectives and ideas to the discussions.

(Crown 2012)

In order to accomplish the above goal, the team has identified a few key strategies that can be seen below:

1. Establish a relationship with key stakeholders with the help of the co-researchers and sponsor
2. Rely on strong communication to clarify the goals and constraints of each stakeholder
3. Use interviews, community forms and observation to analyse and report on the current situation
4. Work with the co-researchers to develop recommendations for process improvements in regards to hard services
5. If time permits, present stakeholders with analytical recommendations, receive feedback to adapt these recommendations and continue this cycle

Direction 2:  Pilot Planning in a New Neighborhood

If Mshini Wam has the support and resources it needs to complete the upgrading process, the team may be given the opportunity to initiate this process in a nearby neighborhood of Joe Slovo Park. The first step would be to analyse the upgrading process in Mshini Wam and identify possible areas of improvement together with the co-researchers that can then be implemented in the new location. It is important to consider the social dynamics, community environment and new feelings toward upgrading strategies of this new community. It cannot be assumed that the community will know the about reblocking or its benefits. With the support and knowledge of the project sponsors and other involved stakeholders the team will be able to assist in the brainstorm, design, planning and if time permits, implementation of reblocking.

Reblocking in Mshini Wam (SDI 2012)

In order to accomplish the above goal, the team has identified a few key strategies that can be seen below:

1. Establish a relationship with key stakeholders with the help of the co-researchers and sponsor
2. Rely on strong communication to clarify the goals and constraints of each stakeholder
3. Use interviews, community forms and observation from Mshini Wam to identify possible areas of improvement in the upgrading process
4. Work with the co-researchers to develop recommendations for process improvements to be adapted for the new neighborhood
5. If time permits, present stakeholders with analytical recommendations, receive feedback to adapt these recommendations and continue this cycle