The assessment is devised as a consultative and time-bound process geared toward providing a ‘first approximation’ of key vulnerabilities and areas requiring priority attention in investment and capacity building. Detailed guidance notes are provided to facilitate sectoral and spatial mapping exercises; risk characterization and identification and stakeholder interviews.

The guidelines assume a ‘rapid’ assessment process, involving a small study/industry team and spanning a period of approximately three months. The assessment tool is designed to deal with crop-based (rather than animal product) supply chains. The broad categories of risks to be investigated will include weather; price; logistics, infrastructure, sanitary/phytosanitary, environment, labor, and policy.