In January 2017, a survey was conducted among 365 alumni of the PDIA course to gauge their utilization of PDIA principles in their professional endeavors. A notable 31% of respondents, spanning 36 countries and representing diverse sectors including government, consulting firms, NGOs, and the private sector, participated in the survey, providing valuable insights into their experiences.

The survey revealed the following key findings:

  • Adoption of Key Concepts: An overwhelming 96% of respondents reported applying the key concepts, ideas, and tools learned through the PDIA course in their daily work.
  • Knowledge Sharing: A commendable 91% of alumni have actively disseminated the PDIA ideas, concepts, and tools within their respective spheres. This includes sharing insights with colleagues, superiors, friends, conducting workshops, leading study groups, and even incorporating PDIA content into organizational training programs.
  • Tangible Achievements: Impressively, 85% of respondents have achieved tangible outcomes by employing PDIA principles in their professional endeavors.

The survey not only provided statistical data but also showcased inspiring anecdotes and concrete examples of how alumni have leveraged PDIA concepts to effect positive change in their work environments. Here are a few testimonials from course alumni:

  • A Governance Adviser at DFID in Nigeria highlighted the transformative impact of adopting a building block approach, emphasizing the importance of sustainable progress rooted in addressing the root causes of problems.
  • A Head of Business Development at Inteliworx Technologies in Nigeria emphasized the shift towards a systems thinking mindset, focusing on solving people’s problems effectively rather than simply implementing solutions.
  • A Development Consultant based in Canada underscored the importance of thorough problem analysis and strategic resource allocation, emphasizing the need to assess the environment and allocate resources where they would be most effective.
  • A Development Practitioner in Australia appreciated the flexibility of the PDIA approach, noting its adaptability to different contexts and its potential to complement other development methodologies.

These testimonials serve as a testament to the profound impact of the PDIA course, not only in equipping professionals with valuable skills but also in instilling a mindset conducive to sustainable development practices. As plans for another round of free PDIA online courses are in the pipeline, the enthusiasm and success stories of alumni serve as compelling evidence of the course’s efficacy and relevance in today’s development landscape. Stay tuned for further updates!