Social Assessment: Theory, Process and Techniques, Third Edition

Social assessment provides a process for research, planning and management of change arising from projects, programmes and policies. Applied to the design and implementation of changes causing social effects, the process is firmly established internationally as an integral component of environmental assessments and decision making. Application to projects ranges from community-level projects to large infrastructure and industrial development. Strategic application of social assessment also occurs in the development and implementation of programmes and policies.

The authors have practiced widely in the field of social assessment and held training courses and workshops on social assessment in many countries, for multi-lateral organizations, public agencies, industry, private consultants, academics and non-government organizations. This book describes social assessment theory, processes and common techniques, as developed from the authors’ international practice and training sessions. It will be of value to students and practitioners with interests and responsibilities in determining and managing social consequences of projects, programmes and policies affecting natural resources and the human environment.