How we operate
Our beliefs shape the way that we work.
The essence of Jigsaw is our ability to adapt and respond, addressing specific needs and bringing strategic insight within whatever context we are operating. We pride ourselves on innovative thinking, bringing creative approaches within a development world more used to prescriptive methods and protocol. We are experts in doing this for four reasons:
First, we are interdisciplinary
Development challenges are too often approached in isolation. It is more effective to view them each as part of an interconnected system, which is why we prioritise critical and consequential thinking, adopting a holistic approach in all our work. Our multidisciplinary team enables us to do this well. Each of our Associates bridges a different professional sphere, ensuring we are balanced, informed and well connected. Whilst we each have individual areas of expertise, we choose to approach our work together, and to draw on one another’s strengths.
Second, we work in partnerships and value participation
Programme beneficiaries are usually in the best position to identify their own needs and solve their own problems. This means we work alongside local communities, listening to them and valuing their perspectives. Recognising that everyone is different, we employ a range of different approaches when interacting with stakeholders to ensure effective communication. In all our work we see value in the process as well as the product and consider this to be an important aspect of beneficiary capacity development. We respect diversity and utilise contextualised approaches that respond to local priorities.
Third, we approach things from the bottom-up and the top-down
Effective development work is dependent upon appropriate intervention at both a local, grass-roots level and in the shaping of national policies. We believe that local empowerment is vital but recognise it is of limited effectiveness if not accompanied by structural reform that enables people to become initiators and active citizens. This means that we focus on enhancing capabilities of individuals and communities whilst at the same time tackling systemic injustice in order to instigate positive change within the structures of society.
Fourth, we innovate.
The world is changing fast. Technology is revolutionising the way that people communicate, communities interact and economies function. In order to remain relevant and effective in our work we actively engage with the opportunities and challenges presented through these changes. Self-reflection and critical assessment regarding our own approaches and assumptions are vital in ensuring we remain a credible and applicable voice in the 21st century. We are a dynamic team who specialise in finding creative solutions through innovative thinking.
Each of the sectors we work in presents its own unique challenges and opportunities. Our beliefs remain constant in all our work and we operate from the same basis whether conducting interviews with street children or shaping policy with government ministers. Our directors and associates are all committed to supporting a variety of transformative community development initiatives around the world. We each donate a portion of our time and income to support the work of these groups. Please contact us for more information.
