Jobs in Value Chains Survey Toolkit

Value chain (VC) studies allow us to provide an in-depth understanding of the interrelationships among firms that operate in a supply network and of the factors that determine the structure, dynamism, and competitiveness of these chains. Although most approaches to value chain analysis provide a limited focus on the nature and structure of jobs in these chains, the Jobs in Value Chains survey toolkit discussed in this guide will help illuminate the number of jobs, where they are located in the VC, and the extent and nature of relationships among actors in a VC. The approach involves value chain mapping and firm-level surveys which quantify employment potential (inclusive of the informal sector), cover the extent and nature of relationships among actors in a VC and identify possible constraints to business operations and growth. Data emerging from these studies can be analyzed to provide solutions to value chain gaps and existing constraints, as well as, to measure the impact of specific job interventions on job creation. The objective of this guide is to provide practitioners with an overview of key items to consider when they design and deliver value chain analysis with the help of the Jobs in Value Chains survey toolkit. The analysis is guided by a strong implementation methodology, which is discussed across the guide. The primary phases involve secondary research for value chain selection, which in turn informs a full mapping of all critical components of the specified value chain. Teams collect jobs data with structured quantitative surveys and semi-structured interviews and focus groups, and they are able to adapt the questionnaires and sampling approach for the selected value chain. The final section includes some recommendations for the structure of the report. The guide has been designed for project team leaders but may also be useful for other donors, development agencies, and government ministries.