We are proficient at socioeconomic impact assessments utilising our hybrid methodology examining the positive and negative attributes of each effect, and of all effects to identify net positive outcomes. We examine cultures and sub-cultures, communities and sub-communities, and directly and indirectly affected peoples to explore differing impact outcomes and use engagement techniques to explore trade-offs for accepting certain impacts or changes in return for benefits or opportunities. Our objective is to identify net positive outcomes for all parties and explore sustainable opportunities for community and project enhancement.
Our core philosophy is effective engagement leverages understanding and trust; a foundation from which meaningful, informed engagement can flourish. We work closely with communities and leaders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the communities we evaluate and strive for civil discussion and consideration of multiple perspectives and interpretations. We have global Indigenous engagement experience, including developing tailored engagement approaches in consideration of local culture, customs, and beliefs in North and South America, Asia, and Oceana. We conduct stakeholder engagement as part of our core work, as well as on a project level for EAs and major projects.
We assist clients with due diligence reporting against internal corporate standards or external standards including local/national standards or international standards like IFC/ADB. We conduct audits to identify the effectiveness of operations and identify efficiencies and improvements. We provide 3rd party review for strategies and reporting with a focus on compliance and enhancement. We have experience as independent 3rd party reviewers for SIA and engagement components of EISs. We also have experience as proponent representatives to enhance in-house capabilities to assist in strategic direction, review and management of EIS consultants.
We specialise in longitudinal and societal studies for socioeconomic/social impact assessments focussing on historical changes, resilience, and future trends. We use existing datasets where possible to develop easy-to-update baselines, and in information deficient environments we use various techniques to identify historical data and validate findings through triangulation and engagement. We also specialize in evidence-based case studies to highlight similarities and differences to other impacted areas to strengthen assessments and mitigation and management planning.
We assist clients in tailoring community development programs and plans with strategic goals based on needs and desired outcomes for the client, the affected communities, and other stakeholders including governments. We can provide support for linked or delinked community development with socioeconomic impacts dependent on the objectives of the client or the best outcome for those affected. We provide practical, deliverable, and measureable solutions focussed on maximizing benefits/opportunities and continually striving for net positive outcomes
We have a firm understanding of culture, community dynamics, social interactions, and politics, and use this knowledge to provide clients with strategic advice. We aim to understand and communicate multiple perspectives for complex issues to enable clients to gain a more thorough understanding of their issues and identify tailored messaging and strategic direction to maximise opportunities. We can embed in the Owner's Team to fill capability gaps, or their Consultant's Team to enhance Project delivery. Our approach is modelled on cooperation, collaboration, and leaving egos at the door.