This page draws on Market systems analysis: a good enough approach to market systems analysis, a donor-friendly resource outlining a pragmatic approach to commissioning and undertaking market systems analysis across contexts.
Successful market system analysis hinges on a well-structured, properly resourced, and effectively coordinated team. Key considerations for establishing such a team include:
Defining the MSA objectives and scope
Before assembling a team, it is important to clearly define the objectives and scope of the analysis. Which specific market system(s) will be analysed? What are the geographic boundaries? What is the overarching goal (e.g. designing a new project, influencing donor priorities, informing internal strategy)? Answers to questions such as these will determine the team's composition, expertise and resources required.
Advice in Selecting market systems offers more information on how to go about answering these questions.
Team structure and roles
It is important to establish the main roles and responsibilities of the MSA team. Specific roles needed for all MSAs, regardless of whether or not they are undertaken in-house or outsourced to a consultancy, include:
- MSA focal point:
A senior-level individual within the commissioning organisation responsible for the overall success of the MSA. This person champions the process, secures buy-in from stakeholders, and ensures alignment with strategic goals. This role requires strong organisational skills, senior leadership and a deep understanding of the organisation's objectives. - MSA lead:
The technical expert responsible for leading the analysis, data collection and interpretation. They guide the team, ensuring methodological rigour and quality deliverables. They should have demonstrated expertise in MSD principles, qualitative research methods and system thinking. - Sector specialists:
Individuals with in-depth knowledge of the specific market system(s) being analysed (e.g. agriculture, finance, tourism). Their expertise provides valuable context and insights for the analysis. - MEL specialist:
The person who ensures data quality, integrity and alignment with the learning framework. This role is crucial for capturing lessons learned and informing future adaptations. - Well-connected ‘fixer’:
A person with established networks within target communities, who can facilitate access to key stakeholders and navigate logistical challenges. This role is invaluable for gaining trust and ensuring effective data collection. - Operations/finance representative:
The person who provides support for procurement, budgeting and logistical arrangements, ensuring the MSA is conducted efficiently and ethically. This person can also help to navigate legal or security issues.
Resourcing the MSA
An MSA needs to be properly resourced in order to provide valuable insights. There are three considerations related to how to resource your MSA:
- Budget:
Develop a comprehensive budget that covers personnel costs, travel, data collection, stakeholder workshops and report dissemination. - Time allocation:
Allocate sufficient time for each phase of the MSA, including planning, data collection, analysis and report writing. - Technology and software:
Provide access to appropriate data analysis software (if needed), communication tools and data storage solutions. Consider AI and qualitative data analysis solutions where appropriate for more time efficient analysis.
The utility of market analyses provides invaluable insight into common pitfalls and their solutions when allocating resources to your MSA.
Planning and coordination
Lastly, consider how to plan and coordinate your MSA to ensure timely communication between the MSA team and relevant stakeholders. Essential to any effective MSA are:
- A kick-off workshop with the entire team to establish a shared understanding of the objectives, scope, methodology and timelines. This workshop should foster team cohesion and promote open communication.
- Clear communication protocols for sharing information, resolving issues and coordinating tasks. Utilise project management tools to track progress and ensure accountability.
- A robust data management system to ensure data quality, security and accessibility. Develop standardised data collection templates and protocols for coding and analysis.