Table 1 The two phases of a social audit

Phase 1: design and data collection

•clarify the strategic focus

•analyse existing data to identify gaps and generate operational questions

•design sample, instruments and conduct pilot test

•collect information from households, institutions, and key informants in a panel of representative communities

•link public service and household data, analyse in a way that points to action

Phase 2: socialising evidence for participatory action

•take findings back to the communities for their views about how to improve the situation

•summarise information for policy and management (eg score cards)

•evidence-based training of planners, service-providers and media

•partnerships with civil society