EWB CHARTER

Our Principles of Work:

1.       We use a People-First approach:

We understand that development is a people-centric process, and that technology life.  We listen to and learn from our partners, working with them to understand the technology can play a role in enabling that change, and how communities can build that technology.

2.       We focus on finding sustainable solutions to root-cause problems:

We seek solutions that address the problems that are at the root of challenges solutions, incorporate the needs, values, and capabilities of the communities. Solutions must also be self-sustaining beyond EWB’s intervention – especially regarding maintenance and repair.  They ideally can be replicated and improved upon.

3.       We maximize social returns by running an effective and efficient organization:

We operate in a disciplined, low-cost manner and strive to provide our members a conducive atmosphere for work.  These social returns come first and foremost from development impact.  We strive to intelligently measure it.

4.       We seek to partner with existing organizations whenever possible:

We recognize that there are many organizations with decades of experience.  EWB partners with non-governmental and governmental organizations and other groups to complement their existing capacity.  We seek to own errors.

5.       We operate transparently and openly address lesson learned:

We must constantly seek out our areas of weakness and strive to correct them; we also publicly debate our failures and discuss means to improve.

6.       We maintain our commitment to under-developed communities:

We face the challenge of balancing the expectations of our stakeholders – members affirm that one stakeholder matters ahead of all others; the members of development constantly ensure that our activities meet their needs.