In the most human of terms success is largely measured by obtaining positive answers to many of these questions:
- Does this family have a secure place to live, a roof that doesn’t leak, beds for each occupant, a source of clean water and a sanitary latrine?
- Are there sufficient funds being generated in this family to provide for three nutritious meals a day?
- Are the children over six in school, school fees paid and uniforms and books available?
- Does this family have the clothing and bedding that they need?
- Are the primary health care needs being taken care of using their own means or is this family connected with a health care provider who will undertake this on their behalf?
- Are there orphans or vulnerable children in the home? If so, has this home been referred to an appropriate agency, Government or NGO?
- Is there a growing sense of dignity in the home highlighted by cleanliness, upkeep and repair of dwellings and yards, community projects and endeavours?
- Are the spiritual needs of the household being addressed adequately?
In accounting terms success is measured by:
- Number and value of loans outstanding
- Average size of each loan
- Bad debt ratio
- Portfolio at risk > 30 days
- Re-scheduled loans due to illness
- Death write-offs
- Total savings held by borrowers
- Total number of staff
- Borrowers per Development Loan Officer
- Operational self-sufficiency
