Stage 7: Launch the Capacity Development Plan, confirm oversight arrangements and monitor implementation.

The implementation of a capacity development plan includes managing and delivering interventions to achieve targeted results, as well as monitoring progress by measuring identified indicators. Monitoring activities should inform the implementation process on a regular basis and should allow managers to adapt and change as necessary to achieve results.

##Activities

1. Prepare for implementation confirm the implementation arrangements including communications and knowledge sharing, results and indicators, management roles, and responsibilities.
2. Confirm the capacity development oversight ensure that those responsible are identified and available to oversee the implementation, and monitor indicators and progress. From a Global Fund perspective this includes the CCM and stakeholder working groups.
3. Implement the capacity development plan manage inputs and resources to execute programme interventions.
4. Conduct regular monitoring ensure regular monitoring of activities and reporting to management and oversight groups.
5. Adapt the plan and alter course adjust the programme of work as necessary during implementation to more effectively and efficiently achieve results.

Key Considerations

The following points should be considered when

• Capacity development needs can change over time Capacity development interventions and schedules may need to be adapted, redefined, and updated at many points during implementation, due to changing needs of individuals and organisations within a changing environment.  Therefore, regular monitoring of indicators is important, and changing of plans is likely.
• Flexibility in management Because capacity development is complex, and does not fit well within the linear structure of typical project management processes, alternative management methods and structures should be considered.  The primary rationale for alternative approaches is to create a management environment that critically reviews progress, is flexible, and can adapt plans to implement activities based progress towards results.  As an example, an approach including senior management annual reviews that focus on expenditures and budget requirements will likely not be effective in steering capacity development. An approach of monthly management and oversight reviews in association with giving programme managers a level of authority to change plans and activities within certain bounds, provides more flexibility and adaptability to the programme.
• Oversight Due to their focus on national ownership and the fact that they consist of representatives from all key sectors and constituencies within countries, Global Fund CCMs can be one of the most effective mechanisms for oversight of implementation of capacity development plans. They could also be responsible for ensuring that capacity development measures are sustained to meet needs as they arise. Creating a culture of dialogue among the different players could result in more effective and efficient delivery of capacity development measures as well as promote the sharing of good practices.
• Communication of implementation To improve effective communications and data sharing during implementation between the PR, SR, SSRs, and various stakeholders, a web-based knowledge repository and information sharing system should be considered.  Such a system can organise and catalogue programme schedules, plans, deliverables, and reports, and offer team-based workspaces and email.