Methodology

Methodology

Capturing Advocacy Success Stories

Step 1: Story selection

To start this project, a mapping of potential success stories was conducted by the PMNCH Secretariat using a desk review approach. Through an iterative process, PMNCH identified potential advocacy success stories, pinpointing the topic and country where significant policy or programmatic advancements have occurred. Additional stories may be identified in the future for consideration, using a similar approach.


Step 2: Desk review

Once a story is selected, a desk review is conducted, identifying relevant documents and sources through a web search of media, academic literature, and partner-shared materials. Each record is documented and downloaded. Records are then analyzed using a structured analysis using an adapted advocacy policy research framework (Figure 1). 

Step 2: Desk review

Once a story is selected, a desk review is conducted, identifying relevant documents and sources through a web search of media, academic literature, and partner-shared materials. Each record is documented and downloaded. Records are then analyzed using a structured analysis using an adapted advocacy policy research framework (Figure 1). 

Step 3: Key informant interviews

Key informant interviews are conducted with stakeholders, including policymakers and civil society partners. The interviews apply a structured guide to capture nuanced perspectives and experiences. Interviews are conducted remotely, recorded, and transcribed for analysis. Ethical clearance has been granted through the University of Cape Town (HREC Ref: 182/2025). 

Step 4: Synthesizing and analyzing the learnings

The insights gleaned are then synthesized through thematic analysis to distill the core elements and "success factors." Information from the desk review and the key informant interviews is analyzed and synthesized using an adapted policy research framework. 

Step 5: Writing, validating, and publishing the story

This analysis informs the drafting of a concise 4-page brief, which undergoes a validation process with the interviewed key informants and other relevant stakeholders to ensure accuracy and relevance. Finally, after any necessary revisions, the content is professionally designed and laid out for clarity and impact, ready for widespread dissemination to inform and inspire future advocacy efforts globally. 

This systematic methodology ensures that our documentation is not only rich in detail but also actionable for those seeking to drive positive change.

For more information on the Success Stories project please contact: PMNCH@who.int

 

 

Figure 1. Advocacy Policy Research Framework

Advocacy policy research framework adapted from existing advocacy and policy process frameworks (e.g., Advocacy Coalition Framework – Sabatier & Jenkins-Smith, 1993; Kingdon’s Multiple Streams, 1995; and advocacy evaluation models – Coffman, 2009) to integrate elements of coalition building, agenda-setting, and assessment of advocacy outcomes.

5 Domains

1. Advocacy coalitions and actor engagement

2. Beliefs, values, and problem framing

3. Policy windows and strategic levers

4. Learning, adaption, and policy sustainability

5. Results of advocacy and recommendations