Revamping and Development of AfDB’s country policy and institutional Assessment (CPIA) platform
Description of project
The project involved the complete redesign and redevelopment of the African Development Bank’s Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA) web platform to serve as a comprehensive content management and knowledge dissemination tool. The CPIA platform is critical for conducting country-level policy evaluations across all 54 Regional Member Countries (RMCs). This evaluation process underpins the allocation of concessional resources of the African Development Fund based on performance metrics.
The new platform aimed to address existing technical limitations by leveraging Drupal Content Management Framework to enhance usability, data security, and functionality. The project included incorporating interactive data visualization tools, streamlining workflow processes, and developing a mobile-responsive interface to support accessibility across devices. Additionally, the platform was designed to enable real-time aggregation of scores and to function as a knowledge repository, offering both qualitative and quantitative insights.
Key project goals were to improve operational efficiency, facilitate inter-departmental collaboration, and enhance the platform's role as a central knowledge hub for policymakers and stakeholders.
Services provided
Key Objectives of the Engagement:
- Requirement Gathering and Analysis: Conducted extensive consultations with AfDB’s Resource Mobilization and Partnerships Department and other key stakeholders to identify business and technical requirements.
- Architecture Design: Designed a robust system architecture incorporating the latest web standards and responsive design principles, ensuring high availability and performance.
- Backend and Frontend Development: Developed the platform using Drupal, focusing on scalability and modularity. Implemented custom functionalities to support unique project-specific requirements, such as workflow automation, data visualization, and user role management.
- Data Visualization Tools: Integrated tools to allow users to analyze and explore CPIA country ratings and rankings at continental, regional, and country levels. Visualizations included dynamic dashboards, heatmaps, and comparative performance graphs for data-driven decision-making.
- Role-Based Access and Security Features: Developed a secure user management system with role-based access controls. Automated notifications and alerts were built into the platform to keep users updated on tasks and deadlines.
- Testing and Optimization: Conducted rigorous testing to ensure the platform's functionality, security, and responsiveness across all devices. Feedback from iterative testing cycles was incorporated into final development.
- Knowledge Transfer and Training: Prepared user manuals and delivered extensive training sessions for AfDB staff to ensure smooth adoption of the platform. All documentation, design materials, and system configurations were handed over to ensure self-sufficiency in future maintenance.
- Deployment and Support: Successfully deployed the platform to AfDB’s servers, adhering to IT security guidelines, and provided post-deployment support to resolve any outstanding issues and ensure seamless functionality.
