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How was the sourcebook developed?
In January 2004, NAFRI held a workshop in Luangprabang on shifting cultivation stabilisation and poverty eradication. Attended by more than 300 people, the workshop demonstrated that projects working in the uplands have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience. During the workshop, one working group explored ways in which these experiences and lessons could be shared and disseminated more widely.

A key recommendation of this group was then to develop a "sourcebook" focused on shifting cultivation stabilisation, poverty eradication and sustainable resource management. An English version was proposed since many experiences have been written up in English but not translated into Lao. By shortening articles and simplifying the language, it would be much easier to eventually translate into Lao and it might have a better chance to be read than long scientific papers.

An English version was proposed since many experiences have been written up in English but not translated into Lao. By shortening articles and simplifying the language, it would be much easier to eventually translate into Lao and it might have a better chance to be read than long scientific papers. While it was decided at the workshop that NAFRI would take the lead, it was also recommended that the sourcebook be developed in partnership with other agencies.
A key element of the sourcebook process has been to foster linkages between research-extension-education. In this sense, the sourcebook is not seen as an end unto itself but a means to establish mechanisms to improve sharing of information between research, extension and education and also to develop ways to jointly produce materials on a regular basis.

Development of the sourcebook began in earnest in September 2004. During the planning stage, an advisory committee was formed comprised of staff from NAFRI, NAFES and NUOL as well as key support projects.

In addition, a project management team was formed within NAFRI to oversee the process throughout. Potential articles were identified from three broad sources:
1. Papers from the 2004 uplands workshop
2. Previously produced reports, publications and materials.
3. New articles on identified gaps or where experiences had not been written up.

Once articles had been identified, artists and editors were asked to repackage them. In a repackaged article, original articles are shortened and a clear focus provided. Language is simplified and complex concepts are broken down into easy to understand  steps. It was also decided to tap the pool of talented young Lao artists to help illustrate each article. Artwork is a key part of the sourcebook as the illustrations bring the concepts and key messages to life and make the publication user-friendly.

Staff from NAFRI, NAFES and NUOL were asked to review and provide feedback on the draft articles at two review workshops. The objectives of the review workshops were to provide an opportunity for staff from key organizations to comment and critique draft articles and ensure feedback from a range of disciplines. The review process also allowed staff to critically review articles outside their normal area of expertise. Some of these staff are also expected to assist with the production process and in the promotion of the publication.
If you would like a copy of the publication or would like more more information contact: info@nafri.org.la