Case Study

How Client Assessment is Making a Difference at CRECER

This SEEP Network case study highlights four key lessons learned from the client assessment program
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This paper is a case study of the Practitioner Learning Programme (PLP), a SEEP Network initiative, funded by the Microenterprise Development Division of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).It describes how client assessment is making a difference at Crédito con Educación Rural (CRECER), a microfinance institution (MFI) that uses village-banking methodology in Bolivia.It then describes how the PLP has helped CRECER to:

  • Remain competitive and improve institutional performance;
  • Enhance social performance;
  • Educate clients;
  • Improve staff morale;
  • Construct product adaptations.

The paper describes six distinct phases of client assessment work including:

  • Information consolidation;
  • Analysis;
  • Reporting;
  • Delegation;
  • Communication;
  • Implementation.

The paper also highlights that the client assessment strategy at CRECER stresses on:

  • The double bottom line;
  • A bottom up approach.

The paper discusses the various research tools used including:

  • Biweekly credit and education meetings;
  • Participatory discussions at periodic meetings;
  • Exit survey;
  • Focus group discussions.

Thereafter, the paper rationalizes why it is not always possible to give clients what they want. These include clients' demands for:

  • Not guaranteeing each other's loans;
  • Technical trainings;
  • Lower interest rates.

The paper concludes with results and lessons learnt, and implications for the field.

About this Publication

By Brott, R. Murray, I. Rueda, I.& Torrico, A.
Published