Click on a program/project for more details on Al Jidara’s work.

Capacity Building for the Public Sector Reform (PSR) Team in the Government Performance Directorate
This purpose of this project is to continue and finalize the DFID funded Public Sector Reform (PSR) work that was performed by PWC(UK) with Al Jidara as their partner, after DFID ended its engagement in Jordan.

The technical assistance addresses capacity building efforts within the Governorate Performance Directorate (GPD) team (at the Prime Ministry) to ensure the GPD team has the needed skills and expertise to define the proper Key Performance Indicators (KPI) based on the National Agenda as well as the actual running of GPD operations and building the internal work processes with the GPD team.

Capacity Building for PSR Teams in the Public Sector Development Administration (PSDA)
The purpose of this project is to continue and finalize the DFID funded PSR work that was performed by PWC(UK) with Al Jidara as their partner, after DFID ended its engagement in Jordan.

The main objective of the work is to support the PSDA Minister, Secretary General and senior officials to exercise their PSR leadership and management roles effectively.

Public Sector Reform/ Restructuring of Prime Ministry
Restructuring of the Prime Ministry in order to meet its current ambitious vision for efficiency and focus on strategic decision making with policy focus.

Specific tasks undertaken included recruiting key staff for the newly setup Government Performance Directorate. Work also included restructuring the Council of Ministers secretariat and developing new sets of procedures and templates, and a guidebook to govern the submittal, evaluation and approval of policy documents submitted to the CoM.

Public Sector Reform for Service Delivery
Provided capacity building, training design, and implementation, which aimed at strengthening the public service’s capabilities in delivering services across the Kingdom. Specific areas of service delivery that were enhanced included beneficiary surveys, service costing analyses, medium term budgeting, output measurement approaches, and stakeholder communication programs, with a focus on the Ministry of Education.

AMIR 2.0 Program
Achievement of Market Friendly Initiatives and Results Program (AMIR 2.0).

AMIR 1.0 Program
Access to Microfinance & Improved Implementation of Policy Reform Program (AMIR 1.0)

ATASP Program
Aqaba Technical Assistance Project (ATASP)

Provision of technical assistance to the Industrial Modernisation Programme (IMP) for Jordan
Al Jidara has won the Industrial Modernisation Programme (IMP) under a consortium led by Transtec SA, to provide technical assistance for local Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) over a range of different assignments and mainly for the benefit of the Jordanian Upgrading and Modernization Programme (JUMP).

EJADA Program
Euro-Jordanian Action for the Development of Enterprise (EJADA).

Streamlining the processes of the One-Stop-Shop Directorate at the Jordan Investment Board
Al Jidara is currently carrying out a project which aims at assessing and analyzing the investment related processes used by the different government entities stationed at the One-Stop-Shop of JIB, and a next phase streamline those processes to simplify the registration and licensing of those processes for investors. The project also covers developing a plan for implementing the suggested improvements which specifies the implementation timeline and requirements and applying those recommendations in one of the investment sectors on a pilot basis.

Support for the Jordanian Upgrading and Modernization Program (JUMP) - Diagnostic Studies
Supported the Jordanian Upgrading and Modernization Program (JUMP) through the provision of full scale diagnostic studies of a specific cluster of five knitwear firms, providing them with benchmarks and designing for each company a detailed upgrading and modernization action plan to be used by JUMP as the basis for providing each firm with the technical assistance and financial support.

e-Initiative Monitoring and Evaluation - MoICT
Developed a monitoring and evaluation framework that will enable MoICT to develop a unified portfolio management approach to assess the impact of e-initiatives on the socio-economic development of citizens, oversee their work, manage and support them as a portfolio of projects.

Assessing the current organization and practices of the Jordan Investment Board
The main objective of the project was to develop an assessment of the current organizational structure and practices of the Jordan Investment Board and support the “best-practice benchmarking and organizational development plan for the Jordan Investment Board” consultancy.

Assessment of e-Government Readiness and Approach in Jordan
Assessed the readiness of the Government of Jordan for implementing an e-Government initiative and subsequently designed a comprehensive implementation plan for launching e-Government in Jordan.

Professional Services for Startups - EJADA
Currently working on coordinating a project to deliver a wide range of professional services to assist start-ups/entrepreneurs affiliated to newly established Jordanian incubators, specifically those at the Royal Scientific Society and Jordan University Technical assistance was extended to the incubatees through a group of professional consultants in the areas of:

• Business Planning.
• Feasibility Studies.
• Marketing Strategy.
• Market Research.
• Marketing Services Support (website, corporate identity development, marketing communications etc.).
• Financial Strategy/Planning
• Management accounting cash flow, budgeting, costing and pricing.

Analysis of Economic and Commercial Policies
Researched and analyzed Jordan's economic and commercial policies in the context of the Stanford Research Institute’s Commercial Policy Matrix.

Analysis of SMEs Growth Constraints
Identified critical issues constraining the growth of the small and medium size (SMEs) businesses in Jordan.

Municipal Licensing Business Process Reengineering
Provided technical assistance to measurably reduce compliance and administration costs for selected business processes at two pilot municipalities in Jordan. The effort entailed mapping out existing municipal licensing and permitting processes covering professional licenses, construction related permits, and health certificates; recommending reengineering solutions; and implementing the reengineered business processes. The effort also included conducting a baseline study and assessing impact of the recommended manual simplification of processes. Moreover, the effort entailed assessing the e-Readiness of the two municipalities as well as recommending pilot processes for electronic enabling.

Organization of a Trade Policy Unit at MoIT
Identified the trade and investment economic data that a “trade policy unit” at the Jordanian Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) should collect for effective trade policy analysis. Also identified existing sources of the trade and investment data that are collected by the government, the methods used to collect, analyze and present the data, and provided a critical review of its quality and sufficiency for trade economic analysis.

Organizational Development Support for JTB
Undertaken as part of a broader assignment of assessing and strengthening the Jordan Tourism Board's (JTB) institutional framework, management capacity and operations, ultimately enabling it to effectively promote Jordan’s tourism sector both regionally and internationally; qualified personnel were selected and recruited to help enhance the organizational performance and efficiency of the JTB. Specific tasks undertaken included the review and further development of job descriptions for certain managerial positions; drafting of job advertisements to appear in newspapers; and development of evaluation criteria for each post. Based on this, candidates were evaluated, short-listed and interviewed. A proposed list of interview questions was also compiled in accordance with the evaluation criteria and positions.

Development of JTB's Institutional and Managerial Frameworks
Undertaken as part of a broader assignment of assessing and strengthening the Jordan Tourism Board's (JTB) institutional framework, management capacity and operations, ultimately enabling it to effectively promote Jordan’s tourism sector both regionally and internationally. An objective analysis of JTB’s financial and administrative procedures was conducted and recommendations were put forward for their improvement to assist JTB in effectively, efficiently and economically fulfilling its organizational goals.

Development of JTB's Administrative Policies and Procedures
Evaluated Jordan Tourism Board's (JTB) staff and recommended proper job positions in accordance with the new organizational structure. Developed a new personnel regulation for the JTB that aimed at governing its administrative policies and procedures and ensured compliance with best practice. The new regulation and salary scale was then presented to the JTB Board of Directors. In an open discussion, best practices were also suggested to the Board with regard to dealing with overstaffing or de-staffing.

Centers of Excellence (COE) Criteria Redevelopment
Surveyed organizations that participated in the first round of the King Abdullah Award for Government Performance and Transparency and used the results to upgrade the Centers of Excellence Criteria.

Investment Promotion Strategy for Jordan’s Tourism Sector
Worked on developing a strategy for tourism-related investment promotion, based upon an analysis of Jordan’s competitive strengths and weaknesses. Following a definition of the desired outcomes of the strategy and an analysis of the market drivers in the local tourism sector, targeted investment opportunities were identified in three main areas (resort hotels, gulf market attractions, and historic/cultural/natural attractions). The principal focus of the strategy in each area was on product development.

MoIT “Centers of Excellence” Program Assessment
Assisted senior Ministry of Industry and Trade staff in assessing the human resources skill base, human resources development systems and procedures, and staffing needs for each department within the Ministry in light of its strategic plan and various recent changes in the economy and the government. The results of this preliminary assessment clarified the Ministry’s current staffing and proposed human resources requirements and their implications on reengineering and modernizing the Ministry.

Diagnostic Study on the “Centers of Excellence” within JIB
Worked with the “Centers of Excellence” Program Process Team Members within the Jordan Investment Board (JIB) to carry out a benchmarking assessment in the process criterion, while providing training for the team process counterpart.

Reviewed results of a COE survey tool, that has been distributed within the JIB and accordingly scored the JIB in the area of processes, with a full assessment of strengths, weaknesses, decisions and opportunities in this area.

Diagnostic Study on the “Centers of Excellence” within JEDCO
Worked with the “Centers of Excellence” Program Process Team Members within the Jordan Export Development and Commercial Centers Corporation (JEDCO) to carry out a benchmarking assessment of the CoE process criterion, while providing training for the team process counterpart.

Reviewed results of a COE survey tool, which was distributed within JEDCO to evaluate the organization’s processes, and fully assessed JEDCO’s strengths, weaknesses, decisions and opportunities in this area.

Developing a Strategic Plan for JGATE
Developed a strategic plan for the Jordan Garments, Accessories & Textiles Exporter’s Association (JGATE).

Jordan Vision 2020 Investment Data Collection Effort (June 2004)
Analyzed and assessed data on direct investments in Jordan, and compiled the data in a report that sorted out investments in three areas in the country: National Customs Area, Aqaba Special Economic Zone (ASEZ), and the Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZ’s).

Investor Roadmap Update and Implementation
Updated the investor roadmap to incorporate several of the qualitative improvements to the previous Investor Roadmap diagnostic and implementation methodology, including all of the regulatory interactions previously addressed and also several important areas that are particularly significant for Jordan today. This report clarified for investors and regulators all of the steps, costs, timeframes and documents required to startup and operate a firm. It also highlighted the problems facing investors arising from administrative constraints and made concrete recommendations to guide change, in light of several meetings and focus groups with local investors and government officials.

Design, Development & Implementation of an MIS System
Provided technical assistance to the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Investor Services and MIS Directorates to support their effort to develop an electronic Enterprise Registration and Permitting System.

Trade & Investment Needs Assessment
Initiated trade and investment information needs assessment, in light of the requirements of a proposed Jordan Authority for Economic Development (JAED) and the Economic Studies Directorate at the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Cost Analysis
Analyzed recurrent cost financing of the municipal water and sewerage sector of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the developed options for water and sewerage tariff reform.

Sector Policy Reform Assessment
Assessed the effectiveness and impact of policy reforms supporting the USAID- Jordan Sector Policy Rerform Program.

World Trade Organization (WTO) Accession
Assisted the Government of Jordan in fulfilling the various accession requirements to join the WTO and to ensure compliance.

GEM 2004 Expert Interviews and Questionnaires
Conducted 36 interviews with national experts of entrepreneurs, government officials, academicians, consultants, politicians, and bankers to include Jordan, for the first time, in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Report. In an effort to put Jordan on a global comparative scale, interviews were transcribed, statistically coded, and logically checked.

Structural Adjustment Facility Program
Provided assistance towards the preparation of the Government of Jordan’s Structural Adjustment Facility Program that was backed by the EC and IMF, and worked to consolidate the fiscal process.This included the documentation, review and assessment of all national reforms in the areas of tax revenue (direct and indirect), tax administration and public pensions/ the social security system; in addition to drafting of Financing Proposal, Technical and Administrative Provisions of the Program, the Logical Framework, and a matrix of conditionalities.

BMZ Evaluation of Jordanian- German Technical Cooperation
Analyzed and assessed the Jordanian- German development cooperation in order to develop a vision and a strategy for the future design of the bilateral cooperation program.

Evaluation of Economic Cooperation between the EC and MEDA
Evaluated the economic cooperation programs between the European Commission and the MEDA countries in order to help enhance the effectiveness of the EC as a development and economic partner.

Database Compilation, Population & Investment Realization
Surveyed the applications of all investors who applied to benefit from the incentives of the Investment Promotion Corporation (now known as the Jordan Investment Board), populated the developed database software, and recommended action plans based on an analysis of the investment realization rates for the various industrial and services sectors and sub-sectors.

Central Bank of Jordan HR & Financial Systems
In country project management for the provision and implementation of a complete Orcacle 11i Human Resource and Financial Systems at the Central Bank of Jordan.

Wireless Sector Market Liberalization Study
Examined Jordan’s wireless sector market liberalization as well as the deployment, development and licensing of advanced wireless technology.

Free Trade Agreement Issue Analysis
Conducted an analysis of the economic impact of the Jordan- US Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on Jordanian business sectors. The study identified the business sectors, in goods and services, in which Jordan would have an advantage in exports to the US versus other countries in the Middle East region, as well as those countries with whom the US has an FTA. The effects of different tariff loads, rules of origin and other market access agreements/ mechanisms for market access to the US were also analyzed, such as GSP, QIZs and WTO. Finally, the impact of the FTA on the bilateral trade in services between Jordan and the US was outlined.

Freeport Feasibility Study
Conducted a location benchmarking, feasibility study and implementation plan for the establishment of a Freeport/ Special Economic Zone (FSEZ) regime in Aqaba, Jordan. The study consisted of: analysis of the comparative advantage, market definition, and investor demand; provision of policy, legal, regulatory and institutional framework; Site evaluation, land use / physical planning; financial and economic analysis; and FSEZ development strategy and implementation plan.

Khadoury Technology Development Center
Identified and targeted potential developers / operators in the Middle East for the development of a Technology Development Center / IT park in the West Bank.

B2B Application Service Provider Assistance
Raised seed monies for a Business-to-Business Application Service Provider (ASP), supported by an exchange that provides “owners” of large capital programs the tools to plan, budget, procure and build their construction projects more efficiently and cost- effectively. IT development was contracted for equity and remaining seed monies are in the final stages of being raised from both Middle East funds and Middle East and USA Venture Capital companies.

Assistance in Privatization Efforts
Assisted the Jordan Investment Corporation (JIC) in its privatization effort of the Ma’in Spa Complex.

Private Sector Development Training
Provided training during a month long Economic Management Training Program, with the Economic Development Institute of the World Bank in cooperation with the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development and the Arab Planning Institute. The objective was to transfer knowledge and best practices from regional and international experience in economic management to Arab policy makers for the purpose of enhanced economic policy formulation and implementation. The subject was Private Sector Development: Conditions for successful public enterprise and privatization and implementation of privatization programs.

Industrial Estates and Free Zones’ Study Tour
Arranged and facilitated a study tour of Jordanian investment and development agencies for the USAID-funded “Promoting Industrial Zones and Investment Mobilization (PRIZIM)” Project and the Palestinian Industrial Estates and Free Zones Authority (PIEFZA).

Trade Enhancement Program (TEP)
Developed a project document for the identification of a TEP, which aimed to upgrade Egypt’s institutional and organizational capacity to prepare and enact suitable trade legislation and implementation measures; and support Egypt’s capability to manage and implement trade liberalization provisions under both the Association Agreement with the EU, the WTO, and other regional agreements.

Municipal Support Program - Palestine
Provided technical assistance and engineering services for the implementation of an EU-funded Municipal Support Program, which aimed at enhancing planning and technical capacity in targeted Municipalities, in order to implement and manage future municipal projects under international financing institutions' monitoring systems.

Executive Management Training Program
Designed and delivered training workshops to Jordanian senior business executives to help them upgrade their skills in a number of areas, thereby contributing positively to the general performance and development of their companies. The main areas of training were: explaining the requirements for competing in the international markets; essentials and competencies of leadership; strategy development; decision-making; delegation of responsibilities and empowerment; the role of continuous innovation and technology for growth; and change management.

Report on the Role of Women in Economic Development
Represented Jordan at the EU “Regional Forum on the Role of Women in Economic Development: Equal Opportunities between Women and Men within the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership”. Prepared and presented a national report about Jordan, addressing and proposing solutions to four main themes: better access for females to the labor market, better access to education and vocational training, better access to financial facilities and the creation and promotion of women’s businesses. Findings were evaluated following a series of workshops, discussed and exchanged with other Mediterranean and European national experts. Conclusions were drafted and presented at the Euro-Mediterranean ministerial conference held under the Belgian Presidency of the EU.

Development of Privatization Programs (Yemen)
Developed tourism privatization programs and marketing strategies for the tourism sector in the Republic of Yemen. 26 out of 39 public enterprises included in the Terms of Reference were successfully privatized within six months of the start date of the assignment.

Tourism & Real Estate Investment Services
Assisted BDO Hospitality Consulting in tourism and real estate consulting services in Jordan, the West Bank and Gaza and Yemen.

Market and Financial Feasibility Research (Amman)
Conducted market and technical research and a feasibility study for a five-star hotel and mall (ITT Sheraton) in Amman, Jordan.

Market and Financial Feasibility Research (Amman)
Compiled market and technical research, a feasibility study and business & market strategy planning for a 3 star suites hotel in Amman, Jordan.

Market and Financial Feasibility Research (Petra)
Developed market and technical research and feasibility study for a four-star tourist resort in Nawaflet Zaman in Petra, Jordan.

Market and Financial Feasibility Research (Aqaba)
Conducted market and financial feasibility research on the Pointe Resort on the Red Sea at Aqaba, Jordan.

Water and Waste water Tariff Restructuring
Analyzed recurrent cost financing of the municipal water and sewerage sector of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the developed options for water and sewerage tariff reform.

Policy Assessment
Assessment of the effectiveness and impact of policy reforms supporting the USAID- Jordan Sector Policy Reform Program.

Preparation and Methodology Documentation
Development of country specific intelligence guides to be used for scoping and outward missions by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority's (ASEZA) Business Development and Marketing Officers (BDMOs) in their efforts to implement the ASEZA Marketing Plan in the targeted sectors and markets.

Promotion of Sustainable Economic Growth
Identified policy reforms aimed at liberalizing restrictive trade and investment practices in Jordan.

Economic Policy Reforms Knowledge Survey
In order to enhance the effectiveness of the implementation of policy reform, a survey was conducted to determine the existing level of awareness among over 120 private sector firms, concerning economic policy reforms that have been made and the status of implementation of each reform.

Feasibility of Establishing a Credit Bureau
Researched and surveyed lending constraints to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and the feasibility of establishing a Credit Bureau in conjunction with actuarial services for insurance companies.

Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZ ) Labor Study
Reviewed the effectiveness and impact of Jordanian investment incentive schemes. This review specifically targeted labor demand at QIZs as the major indicator of assessment.

Mid- Program Impact Assessment
Measured the impact of the AMIR Program/ USAID to date on the people, economy and Government of Jordan.

Drafting of the Competition Law
Assisted the Jordanian Ministry of Industry and Trade in redrafting the national Competition Law.

Translation of promotional material
Provided English to Arabic translation of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority’s (ASEZA) promotional material, which is to be used throughout the implementation of ASEZA’s proactive marketing plan across the Arab World. The promotional material includes ASEZA Web Site, Business Guide, ASEZ at a Glance video clip, and “Destination Aqaba” brochure.

Development of an IT Industry Study
Developed an IT Industry/REACH Initiative study in Jordan in light of the country’s competitive and comparative advantage. The study was conducted to present the current structure of Jordan’s IT industry; evaluate Jordan’s competitive and comparative advantage; detail a strategy and action plan for launching the IT industry and additionally present an analysis of the current and future fiscal and economic contributions, costs, and benefits of the action plan for the industry.

Securities Depository Software Customization
Designed a database for creating entry relationship diagrams and designed bilingual forms for the Securities Depository in Jordan.

Assessment of Securities Depository Functionality
Assessed the functionality of the Securities Depository, determined its needs, and implemented them as follows: installed, enhanced, and upgraded the Share Registry System and the Central Securities Depository System for the Jordan Securities Commission. Customized and expanded the software to meet the needs of the Jordanian securities market. Also, converted the Depository System to Oracle, and made the Registry system available in both SQL and Oracle.

Investment Targeting Strategy
Assisted the Investment Promotion Corporation of Jordan (now known as the Jordan Investment Board) to better target potential investors within the region. The study updated an investor targeting strategy by providing a better understanding of the investment environment, investment trends and investor profiles in potential regional markets and for certain sectors. It also assessed the need for promotional missions to promote Jordan as an investment destination in targeted markets and outlined their required logistics.

The Jordan-EU Association Agreement
As part of the “Europe Comes to Jordan” awareness campaign, a seminar was held to introduce the Jordan- EU Association Agreement, its implications and conditions to Jordanian businesses- largely to managers of SMEs, members of business associations, members of chambers of industry and commerce and some governmental institutions.

Jordanian Industrial Estates Market Demand Study
Assessed the demand and supply situation of the Jordanian Industrial Estates in order to propose a development strategy for the Jordanian Industrial Estates Corporation (JIEC) in terms of locations and supply of future planned Industrial Estate facilities.

Development of Strategies for JIB and MoIT
Worked together with the Jordan Investment Board (JIB) and the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) among other relevant bodies to assist the efficient, effective and speedy reform of Jordan’s international marketing strategies for the pharmaceutical and medical equipment sectors. This entailed the production of strategic marketing plans for these two sectors, including the production of guidebooks related to such sectoral marketing activities.

Preparation of Implementation Stage
Undertook various tasks for the preparation of Aqaba for the Implementation stage of a Special Economic Zone, which included business registration and licensing procedures, job descriptions surveys and best-fit models. Also, provided and managed administrative support staff to the Aqaba Technical Assistance Support Project office.

Assistance and Capacity Building
Provided capacity building, training, investment targeting and promotion, sectoral studies, standardization and documentation of procedures, e-Government, privatization, tax system development, for the three year implementation of the USAID- funded Aqaba Technical Assistance Support Project; aimed at enhancing the capacity of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) to effectively manage the Aqaba Special Economic Zone.

Demand Assessment for an Industrial Park
Conducted a comprehensive market research effort to estimate demand for an industrial estate with a Qualifying Industrial Zone (QIZ) status in Aqaba, Jordan, and developed physical design guidelines based on the projected demand.

Development of an Investment Tracking System
Designed, developed, and implemented an investment tracking system for the Investment Promotion Corporation.

Corporate Strategy Planning
Provided technical assistance to manage conference logistics, develop the scheduling matrix, and support the development of a strategic plan for the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Corporate Strategic Planning Workshop.

Analysis of Jordan’s Key Regional Competitors
The ultimate objective of this assignment was to contribute to the creation of a new investor targeting strategy for the Jordan Investment Board (JIB), by determining which sectors were appropriate potential targets for investment promotion.

Development of Pharmaceutical & Medical Marketing Strategies
Produced marketing strategies- under the larger goal of enhancing Jordan’s capacity to identify appropriate target sectors of industry and services internationally, to promote Jordan to leading companies in these sectors, to win significantly increased annual investments into Jordan and to professionally facilitate such investments. The pharmaceutical and medical sectors were selected based on comprehensive research of appropriate opportunity areas, in light of Jordan’s competitive position and of the capabilities of Jordan’s key investment promotion entity, which is the Jordan Investment Board (JIB).

Inventory of Private Property for Enterprise Database
The development of an inventory of Private Properties for Enterprise constituted an important component within an Integrated Trade and Investment Information System, which was being created to cater for investors wishing to learn about such property. Aside from profiles on private industrial estates, the inventory included information on where the data was available from, frequency of its dissemination, update and publication.

Assessment of Potential Business Opportunities
Conducted desk research on the potential business opportunities for the Port of Aqaba and the Aqaba Special Economic Zone, in light of the lifting of the (12-year old) economic sanctions on Iraq. Research included Jordan’s trade (with a special emphasis on trade with Iraq); Port of Aqaba activity; data on port charges (rates and tariffs for clearance, handling, logistics and freight forwarding to Iraq); Port specifications and features. Also conducted interviews with firm owners, doing and/or pursuing business with Iraq- enquiring after the nature of their activities, and their perspectives on the prospects and constraints facing expanded trade with Iraq.

Training Management & Coordination
Developed, implemented, and managed an appropriate human resource and institutional training program for the Aqaba Special Economic Zone, to enable the Authority to fulfill its broad mandate to develop the Zone. This included training needs assessments for all ASEZA Commissions and constituent departments, with a total of over 1000 employees, and recommendations for all staff training.

Research & Policy Advocacy Unit Assistance
Ensured that this Unit - under the Investment Affairs Directorate at the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) - is properly established, functional and that mechanisms for its update and maintenance were in place- through the provision of technical assistance on: unit management, coordination and implementation of data collection efforts, creation of systems for the Unit, means of disseminating information, the production of a quarterly Newsletter and setting-up a database for the production of statistical and automated reports. The Unit’s objective was to ensure that ASEZA has an updated information bank, which would serve as an intelligence center for planning promotional activities, maintaining and updating promotional material, generating policy position papers to be used as decision-making tools, and disseminating information to prospective investors, management and visitors. Concurrently, the unit will track the performance of the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) through specific socio- economic indicators.

Development of Annual Report
Provided technical assistance for the publication of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone’s First Annual Report, in English and in Arabic. This included proposing the contents of the publication, compilation of all included material, drafting, editing, translation and proof reading, in addition to advisory services for the design and layout of the final product.

Quality Control/ ISO Support Services
The support rendered to the Aqaba Special Economic Zone, towards the goal of achieving its ISO Certification involved documentation, drafting, auditing and translation of Standard Operating Procedures. It also entailed the amendment of current procedures in light of legislative and other changes in progress, in addition to other technical translation advisory services.

Tax Administration Support
Provided advisory services to the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority Commissioner for Revenue and Customs and to the Director of Taxation, whose responsibility is to ensure the efficient implementation and operation of the Income Tax Division within the Zone. This included reviewing and diagnostic of all existing tax processes in effect in the ASEZ; designing of effective and efficient forms for future use; devising a revised staffing structure for the Income Tax Division; preparing a draft Memorandum of Understanding between the Income Tax Division and other relevant divisions within the Zone; in addition to several other tasks, including the development of a work plan for technical assistance to achieve actions identified in the course of the diagnostic.

Grants Management and Administration
Managed and administered the Aqaba Technical Support Project’s small grants program, which aimed at awarding US$500,000 to local NGOs.

Valuation of Warehousing Operations
Provided technical assistance to the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority in determining the real value of warehousing operations and exploring the appropriate means for compensation to be structured and implemented. This exercise was additionally used to assess the financial performance of warehousing operations at the time of the study and to enable the presentation of recommendations for alternative management structures.

Capacity Building for BMD Staff
Provision of technical assistance to build the capacity of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Business Development and Marketing Directorate (BDMD) staff, in order to attain best possible results in the implementation of the ASEZA’s current Marketing Plan, and subsequent ones, through enhancing their marketing and investment promotion skills, as well as developing BDMD officers’ modern management and communication skills.

Human Resources Audit of JIB, JEDCO, JIEC & FZC
Methodology and survey guidelines were prepared, setting out the framework for an in-depth HR audit of the Jordan Investment Board (JIB), the Jordan Export Development and Commercial Centers Corporation (JEDCO), Jordan Industrial Estates Corporation (JIEC) and the Free Zone Corporation(FZC), including the design of survey instruments, specification of data to be collected (including number and designation of authorized positions, number and designation of filled positions, grade and salary band for each position, actual breakdown of education and experience, etc., for each entity), in addition to the format for the presentation of data.

Organizational Review of JIEC
Redrafted the Jordan Industrial Estates corporation (JIEC) Organizational Chart and Job Descriptions, in accordance with its future missions and objectives, to take account of relationships with other investment entities that are to be created, and JIEC’s anticipated strategic and marketing role.

Process Management Criteria Development
Developed a Process Management Criteria for the Economic Development Directorate at the Royal Court in Jordan.

Backward Linkages Database Inventory
Provided a detailed and technically specific inventory of available information relating to investment and enterprise (foreign firms operating in Jordan, as well as domestic manufacturers and traded service providers with ten or more employees) in Jordan, which was used as one of the building blocks for a future backward linkages program.

Enhancing Public - Private Dialogue
Improved policy reform and its implementation through institutional strengthening, and developing and nurturing public-private dialogue.

Public Relations and Advocacy Communications
Assisted and trained five Jordanian Business Associations to strengthen their capability in implementing a practical model of an effective public relations and advocacy communications program.

Recruitment of Commercial Attaches for Jordanian Embassies
Assisted the Ministry of Industry and Trade in screening over 200 applications submitted by candidates in response to newspaper advertisements seeking Foreign Service officers to serve in a marketing and investment promotional capacity. A short list of these applicants was prepared and they were subsequently interviewed.

Business Associations Membership Survey
Conducted a qualitative survey to assess the level of satisfaction with the services rendered and those needed by members in different key business associations in Jordan. Public policy awareness and potential advocacy capabilities of these associations were also investigated to gauge associations and members' capacities.

Position Paper on Education and the Jordanian School System
Developed a policy position paper for the Young Entrepreneurs Association entitled "Education/ Human Resource Development, Business and the Jordanian School System”, which was used as an effective tool in leading a public policy advocacy program. The aim was to convince the stakeholders: public and private schools and the government to introduce the policies and resources necessary to modify school curricula to enhance creativity, innovation and critical thinking. Another aim was to build capacities of schoolteachers through professional training, introduction of the English language, Internet-use and computer teaching from first grade.

Education Advocacy Strategy and Training
In association with the Young Entrepreneurs Association, a concrete advocacy program was developed and implemented, which aimed at enhancing the ability of the private sector and the business community to influence polices and laws necessary to improve education and enhance critical human resource skills.

Social Security Law Inequality Policy Paper
Researched and assessed the social and financial impact of the social security inequality issue on families. Assessed the effect of changing those regulations and laws that govern the present situation. Recommendations were put forward regarding what regulations, laws and organizational arrangements were needed to empower women, their families and estates with equal economic rights.

Social Security Law Advocacy Program
Developed an advocacy program for a Jordanian Business Association, aimed at key decision and policy makers, groups, and organizations affected by the inequality of the social security law. Provided legal advice on the law and related regulations, and supported the effort of the Business and Professional Women’s Club in implementing the developed program.

Business Associations Members Tracking System
Designed, developed and implemented a member- tracking system tailored to each association’s needs and requirements and integrated within their current available systems.

Organizational and Planning Support to JIEC
An organizational review was conducted for the Jordan Industrial Estates Corporation (JIEC), followed by an assessment of the proposed merger between the JIEC and the Free Zones Corporation (FZC), with a view to facilitating the investment and enterprise development environment in Jordan.

Business Upgrading for a Jordanian Medical Company
Provided technical assistance to a Jordanian company that manufactures medical disposables to improve its existing manufacturing processes, its productivity and employee efficiency. The assignment also explored ways to help the company overcome problems of inconsistency in production quality.

Business Upgrading for a Steel Manufacturing Company
Provided technical assistance to a Jordanian steel manufacturing company to measure the company’s competitive position in the European market. This necessitated a complete review and assessment of the company’s products, business processes and markets; market research and analysis on the market the company is aiming to penetrate; presentation of realistic market options for the company to explore, with recommendations that served as guidelines for top management.

Market Specifics and Services Demand Survey- Northern Jordan
Designed and implemented field work survey activities in Northern Jordan to assist micro-finance institutions' subsidiaries in the development of demand driven loan products by defining the profile of micro enterprises, determining their credit needs and establishing baseline data for future surveys and development of new loan products.

Market Specifics and Services Demand Survey- East Amman
Assisted selected NGOs and commercial banks to develop a demand-driven product and identify borrowers. The survey defined the profile of micro-enterprises in East Amman.

Market Specifics Micro-finance Survey
Conducted a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the micro-finance services needed by present and potential entrepreneurs in Jordan. The survey detailed the demand and supply side issues of available credit facilities (formal) and current practices (informal). The survey was the first of its kind that specifically addressed the different issues related to micro- lending.

Implementation of an MIS System for MFIs in Jordan
Ensured adherence of the beta version of “Banking Beyond 2K” software (developed for the use of micro-finance institutions (MFIs) for micro-finance banking and loan tracking) to the technical specifications for a standard Microfinance software product. Also, identified additional user requirements of the MFIs and defined and managed the implementation of the software.

MFI Policy Constraint Review
Produced a policy paper identifying constraints that inhibited the growth of the microfinance industry in Jordan. The paper included a prioritized action plan designed to minimize the negative impact of these restraints.

Investment Promotion Sectoral Strategies
Worked with JIB to evaluate Jordan’s competitive position in three main sectors and developed a three-year inward investment promotion strategy for these sectors.

Jordan as a Hub for Entrepreneurship
Identified the mindset, environment, conditions, and responsibilities needed to be in place for Jordan to flourish as an entrepreneurial hub.

Baseline Assessment Municipal BPR Wadi Sir
Assessed the process of issuing and renewing professional licenses at the Wadiseer Municipality for the year 2003, and measured improvements in the Municipality’s performance following the implementation of the Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) effort.

Human Resource Position Descriptions and Competencies
Assisted the Customs Department in Jordan by closing the identified skill gaps in the HR and Training Directorates through human resource and training reform.

Developing Sectoral Marketing Strategies (Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment)
Produced marketing strategies for foreign direct investment (FDI) promotion and facilitation to the pharmaceuticals and medical equipment sectors. Explained the dynamics, production, marketing, and processes involved in the selected sectors.

Investment promotion Sectoral Strategy: Methodology
Presented a detailed document of the methodology that is being used to develop the current series of investment promotion sectoral strategies for the JIB.

Investment Promotion Sectoral strategy: Garments
Assisted the Jordan Investment Board (JIB) in evaluating Jordan’s competitive position in the Garments sector and developed a three-year inward investment promotion sectoral strategy.

Develop a Quality and Performance Management System
Improved and built on the current Project Management Office (PMO) processes to comply with ISO 9000:2000 standards and worked within the context of Centers of Excellence (CoE) criteria and Project Management environment.

Develop Jordan Tourism Board’s Operational Effectiveness
Developed the Jordan Tourism Board’s personnel regulation and an employee evaluation system that set the base for JTBs administrative procedures and determined employees positioning within JTB’s new organizational structure.

Business Upgrading for a Medical Supplies Company
Assisted a medical supplies company in establishing a sales, marketing, export, distribution and market intelligence function.

Management of Executive Training Workshops

Development of a Web Directory for Textile Companies
Developed a Jordanian textile and web directory to facilitate business cooperation with companies working directly or indirectly within the clothing and textile sector in Jordan.

Business Upgrading for a group of Engineering Companies
Conducted a comprehensive cluster assessment and benchmarking, positioning and upgrading assistance program to a selected group of engineering companies.

Development of a Marketing Communications Strategy for the Chamber of Industry in Zarqa.
Assisted the Chamber of Industry in Zerqa in developing a marketing and communications strategy, periodical newsletters and fliers, brochure, as well as a website.

Design and Development of Management Structure for a Pharmaceutical Company
Assisted a pharmaceutical manufacturing and distribution company in developing and implementing a management structure with policies, procedures and job responsibilities.

HR Development for a Construction Steel Manufacturing Company
Assisted a construction steel manufacturing company in establishing an operational human resource function within the company, to include among other requirements the human resource development policy, job descriptions, manpower planning, salary schemes, motivation schemes, as well as monitoring and evaluations schemes and procedures.

Auditing Production Process for a Plastic Packaging Manufacturing Company
Assist a Plastic (PRT) packaging manufacturing company, through auditing the company’s production processes, in identifying the opportunities to increase productivity, as well as reducing production costs. And also help the company implement the recommendations of the audit.

Support for a Metal Packaging Company
Assist a metal Packaging company (cylindrical and conical steel drums primarily for bulk food and chemicals) in the implementation of six sigma concept and to measure the effect of applying this approach on the production, reduction in the number of defects, increase in customer satisfaction and growth in profits.

Productivity Audit & Enhancement for a Jordanian Manufacturing Company
The main objective of the project was to perform a thorough audit of the company’s production processes to identify opportunities to increase productivity and efficiency as well as reducing production cost. The project objective also included assisting the company in implementing the recommendations of the audit.

Assessing the current licensing process at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Conducted a diagnostic study into the existing licensing procedures for hotels and restaurants at Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, identified bottlenecks and obstacles, recommended improvements in the system in line with the licensing aspects of the Investment Law to improve Jordan’s enabling environment for business at the sectoral level. This system is envisaged to become the nucleus of a national data system that can also be used for other sectors and for measuring performance of sectoral level.

Sectoral Licensing Project-Project Conceptualization
Prepared a scoping study for a project which aims at reengineering the sectoral licensing processes in Jordan through the utilization of the business registration and licensing aspects of the new investment Law No. (68) for the year 2003 to improve Jordan’s enabling environment at the sectoral level.

SABEQ Program
Sustainable Achievement of Business Expansion and Quality (SABEQ) Program.

Karak and Irbid Economic baselines
Collected and analyzed available economic and demographic data on the Governorates of Karak and Irbid including items related to the history, geography, employment, education and skill levels, and main sectors of the regional economy, business environment and overall investment climate. Obtained comments and perceptions of business leaders in the regions. Conducted a SWOT analysis of the regional economies. Information was compiled into benchmark reports to serve as the point of reference that will enable SABEQ and other stakeholders to evaluate the local economic performance.

Scoping of GAM's One Stop Shop
Supported the Special Projects Unit of Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) in designing an investor-friendly Building Permitting Process for the Building Licensing applications submitted by the investors through the One Stop Shop (OSS). Conducted a comprehensive AS IS study for six independent external entities and thorough analysis of stakeholders and GAM’s requirements and constraints. Developed a consolidated concept model of GAM and stakeholders processing of building licenses that enabled a single investor interface through GAM OSS. Al Jidara also conducted several discussion sessions with GAM Representatives and Stakeholders for model verification and confirmation.

Rapid Diagnostic of Garment Sector
Provision of a concise and comprehensive picture of the current profile of garment manufacturers (factory ownership, level of exports, employment, main markets, main products, production costs, challenges, and required areas of assistance, etc.) with the aim of improving and maintaining the garment sector’s competitiveness while meeting international standards and requirements.

Preparation for Dealing with licenses
Acquiring a clear understanding of the World Bank: Doing Business methodology and defining reform priorities to the indicators of dealing with licenses and starting a business. This encompassed meetings with stakeholders and recommending interventions to streamlining the processes of licensing and starting a business. Stakeholders include: Electricity Regulation Commission, Electricity Company, Water Authority of Jordan, Water Company, Engineering Department in Greater Amman Municipality, Professional Licensing Department in Greater Amman Municipality and Jordan Engineering Association.

Investor Information System
Populated a comprehensive investor information system for SABEQ Program; the system comprises user-friendly documents and factual information on Jordan’s macroeconomic, socioeconomic, political, and legal environment in Jordan, among other key indicators relevant to the investment decision making process. The system also includes sector-specific information on nine main promising sectors in Jordan. Information was collected from various national and international trusted data sources and compiled in accordance to best practices of investment promotion agencies around the world.

Impact Assessment Study for Madaba Project
Conduct a qualitative and quantitative Impact measurement and assessment of the business process re-engineering and automation effort that was implemented in the Municipality of Greater Madaba in 2005 for the issuance and renewal of vocational licenses.

Establishing M&E unit at JE
Advisory role services and assistance to Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation (JE) in establishing a "Monitoring and Evaluation Unit" that would track JE’s performance and evaluate the effectiveness of their development support to SMEs.

GAM's HDMU OSS
Supported the Special Projects Unit of Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) in designing an investor-friendly building permitting process for the building licensing applications submitted by the investors through the one-stop-shop. This was followed by, a comprehensive as is study for six independent external entities and a thorough analysis of stakeholders and GAM’s requirements and constraints. Development of a consolidated concept model of GAM and stakeholders processing of building licenses enabling a single investor interface.

Supporting the implementation of streamlined licensing processes in Wadiseer District
Guidance and assistance to Wadi Seer District of Greater Amman Municipality in the implementation of streamlining processes for the issuance and renewal of professional licenses along with mentoring and supporting the management team in follow up, coordination and application of new business practices.

Booklet of Standardized Definition
Prepare a standardized SME definition that is appropriate for Jordan through researching the market of available SME definitions and comparing them to best practices and used definitions by internationally recognized institutions, reviewing countries-specific definitions, particularly those with similar economic and business structures to Jordan, analyzing the local SME sector to better understand the conditions under which it works and be more able to set reasonable criteria for the definition and preparing a booklet for SME definition.

Environmental Assessment of Jordan's Economy
Supporting the Ministry of Environment in the development of an operational, legal and institutional framework for the formulation and enhancement of the legal, institutional and operational plan for the Jordanian Environmental Protection Fund (JEPF).

Inventory Tourism Attractions
Provision of a detailed inventory analysis of all present and potential tourism attractions in the North of Jordan. This inventory analysis led to the selection of attractions that would receive SABEQ’s share of support to develop the tourist experience in the North and to integrate it into Jordan’s tourism hotspots.

CAMP Monitoring and Evaluation Assistance
Technical support to Customs Administration Modernization Program (CAMP) Program and Jordan Customs in implementing the M&E Plan in order to enable high quality reporting to the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). The technical assistance included revising the Program’s work plan and M&E design and Plan to ensure correct implementation, building CAMP and Jordan Custom’s capacity through training and follow-up support on specific M&E System implementation needs, and assisting CAMP in reporting to MCC through defining the internal reporting mechanism and the development of its M&E support tools.

MoJ Change Management Training
Trained 40 Ministry of Justice (MoJ) employees at the Enforcement Department on change management and Customer Relationship management to build their capacity to effectively implement the computerized systems and procedures established for the department. The assignment included: assessment of staff needs, design and delivery of capacity building workshop evaluation of training outcomes and recommendation of next steps and actions for department staff.

Training on Tools for Proposals
Implementation of a training plan aimed at training representatives of 16 civil society organizations from Irbid and Karak on tourism strategies and tools to develop income generation project's proposals that builds on the momentum of SABEQ activities in the tourism sector.

Assessment of Karak Caslte as a Tourism Destination
Assessment of Karak Castle as a tourism destination through targeted tourist questionnaires. Approach based investigation on capturing the perceptions of tourists and identifying what they are seeking in terms of experience in Karak. This identified areas for potential improvement in order to provide a more fulfilling experience for Karak visitors.

Survey of the Needs of JOFIA's members
Assessment of Karak Castle as a tourism destination through targeted tourist questionnaires. Approach based investigation on capturing the perceptions of tourists and identifying what they are seeking in terms of experience in Karak. This identified areas for potential improvement in order to provide a more fulfilling experience for Karak visitors.

Smart Tape Center - Facilitate the startup of businesses in the Governorate of Irbid
Compilation of an inventory of the requirements and services provided by the government and non-government institutions to the private sector to start and operate their businesses in Irbid. The final inventory of services provided a comprehensive requirements checklist about all municipal, government and non-governmental services and requirement that should be obtained by the business sectors to start and operate their business in Irbid including pre-requisite steps, documents and forms needed, fee structures and approvals. The report also highlighted challenges and areas where duplications or inconsistencies were found and made some preliminary recommendations for further study.

Jordan Valley Infrastructure Land Use Plan
Development of a detailed land use plan necessary for guiding sustainable land use within areas designated for municipal, industrial and tourism growth. The land use plans will use and draw upon the Jordan Valley Preliminary Land Use Master Plan project.

MoICT Economic Unit Infrastructure Services and Report
Continued on the development and assistance to the Economic Unit at the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MoICT) in Jordan. Report and design: matrix evaluation model, structuring main functions, interaction models and partnerships and the development of econometric models.

Land & Survey Department
Assistance in the improvement of the land registration legal and regulatory frameworks for businesses in Jordan at the Land & Survey Department. Diagnostic study of the internal processes and baseline assessment was conducted as well as drafting an action plan contributing to improving Jordan's ranking in the "Property Registration" indicator in the IFC "Doing Business" report.

JDC Business and Marketing Plans
Development of JDC’s business and marketing plans and assisting JDC to identify its role in the manufacturing process and be recognized by different stakeholders as the premier institution for design education. Further, assistance was delivered by reviewing and defining JDC’s mission statement as well as conducting technical, management and organizational analysis to include SWOT analysis, action planning and putting into motion the updated business and marketing plans.

Strategic Planning for King Abdullah II Center for Excellence
Guide King Abdullah II Center for Excellence (KACE) in revisiting and updating its 3-year strategic plan to facilitate the Center in redefining its role in developing Jordanian institutions and in helping its management in make decisions on allocating its resources. The project consisted of situational analysis, redefining vision, mission and values and setting new goals, objectives and action plans. The work was performed in close coordination with (and involvement of) KACE BOD, management, staff, suppliers and customers.

Investor Information System Maintenance
Population and regular maintenance of a comprehensive investor information system for SABEQ Program; comprising user-friendly documents and factual information on Jordan’s macroeconomic, socioeconomic, political, and legal environments, among other key indicators relevant to the investment decision making process. The system also includes sector-specific information on nine main promising sectors in Jordan, namely : Medical Services, Architecture and Engineering Services, Pharmaceuticals, Fruits and Vegetables, Higher Education, Research and Development, Tourism, Garment and Information and Communication Technology sectors.

Communication Planning for King Abdullah II Center for Excellence
Development of a communication plan for King Abdullah II Center for Excellence (KACE) along with supporting KACE in communicating their strategy, identifying key audiences, determining the information needed, adapting messages appropriately, allocating budget, and developing a calendar for message release. Further, work was carried out assisting in the improvement of KACE’s action plan as well as reviewing KACE’s strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for each of its goal.

Developing a business plan for JOFIA
Established and formulated a comprehensive business plan serving as a guiding tool for planning and forecasting Jordan Federation of Investments Association (JOFIA)’s operations and strategic direction for the next three years. The plan incorporated achievable goals and objectives while suggesting best strategies for targeted and effective advocacy.

Support Jordanian Handicraft Development
Following a comprehensive and detailed assessment of handicrafts being produced in Irbid, Jerash, Ajloun and Karak several marketing and strategic recommendations were developed followed by setting-up quality standards, ensuring consistency in manufacturing, supporting in the outsourcing of raw materials and ensuring product were showcased at the Centre. Work also included technical capacity building as an assistance in the production and marketing phases.

Association Proposal Capacity Building
Supporting three business associations in Irbid to develop their business ideas into well structured and planned proposal with clear sustainability structure. Work also included building the capacity of the selected business associations through training of trainers in each association. Associations were provided with templates and manuals on how to write a business proposal and how to develop a business and sustainability plans. Work also included identifying linkages between the selected associations and the private sector inside and outside the governorate.

ICI Strategic Management Plan
Developed a 3-year Strategic Plan for the Irbid City Chamber of Commerce (ICI) in coordination with the Chamber’s Board, management, staff and other stakeholders to transform the Chamber into a more business-oriented organization that focuses on meeting the evolving needs of its members efficiently and effectively. The project also entailed the development of the chamber’s organizational structure, chains of command and staff job descriptions.

Assessment of Ajloun Castle as Tourism Destination
Through field surveys, the assessment captured the perceptions of foreign visitors and identified their experiences when visiting Ajloun Castle. The assessment was done to aid any potential development in improving the touristic experience of visiting Ajloun Castle. The data and information gathered also serves as a baseline for future annual surveys.

Small Office Home Office Focus Group Sessions
Assessment of the small office / home office situation in Amman, achieved through two focus group sessions to generate information on the following: types of businesses that they run, conditions of work, number of employees recruited and the reasons for operating without licensing, and any other related information to the legal and operational process. Analysis and recommendations followed regarding the current situation and the desirability of authorizing home offices in Amman.

Align Int@j Operational Actitivities with its Strategic Direction
Alignment of Information Technology Association of Jordan’s (INTAJ) operational activities, institutional structure and HR policies with its five-year strategic goals and plan through the development of an effective management practices that is sustainable and with a focus on productivity, cost reduction, performance measurement and accountability. Work included the development of operational procedures and work methodologies, organizational structure and detailed job descriptions for all staff members , in addition, to the development of an overall performance management system, training needs assessment, and a roll-out plan for the proposed organizational and operational structure.

MoICT EU Infrastructure Services and Reports
Building on the analysis and reporting needs identified in the Charter and information needs analysis, three econometric models were devised to measure the size and impact of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in Jordan. Industry-standard methodology was used to develop models, and specify data inputs and model parameters along with data outputs to describe the economic impact, as well as testing and refining of the models with actual data.

Provided methodologies and outlines for narrative reports summarizing data analysis and provided examples of practical analytical studies and policy briefs, which can be produced by the Economic Unit staff to support MoICT decision-making process by senior policy-makers.

Transferred economic modeling knowledge to the Economic Unit staff and developed their capacity to disseminate statistics appropriately and fully, and to maximize operational and strategic usage of the available statistics to achieve policy objectives through continued on-the-job-training for the Economic Unit researchers on modeling procedures.

MonoJo Management Assessment and Strategy
needs, equipment, proprietary technology, production processes, financial and accounting systems. Work also included analysis of MonoJo’s products positioning, bench marking with regional and global competitors, and competitive and comparative advantage. Further work included, identification of MonoJo’s growth strategy.

Lean Manufacturing 5-s TA
Applied the lean manufacturing 5S system (Sort, Straighten, Sweep, Standardize and Self Discipline) in three manufacturing companies in engineering products sector in Jordan. The project aimed to enhance productivity, eliminate waste, reduce production costs and improve quality through work standardization and improving safety procedures. In addition to building internal capacity of key staff in the development and management of the 5S system, technical recommendations and improvements were suggested in the areas of process optimization.

Dairy sub-sector Jameed Product Development and Branding
As part of local economic development technical assistance, Al Jidara consultants worked on assisting a selected number of associations to upgrade their technical and production capabilities. This was done to assure that associations and their member producers will follow standardized quality measures to help increase annual production levels and sales. The analysis involved market intelligence on the supply market in Karak (women producers at home or in women association) and Amman. The market research conducted in Amman involved field visits and phone interviews with superstores, restaurants and smaller shops regarding their sources of Jameed, prices offered and profile of main clientele (local vs. Expatriats). Additionally a full diagnosis was conducted of the dairy sub-sector and Jameed product in Karak. An assessment was conducted on the requirements needed to sustain production levels of jameed and enhance its quality and the necessary equipment, training and marketing needs of associations under each unit in order to fulfill the minimum standards required to produce quality product. An integrated business model was devised merging all business units with a unified quality for packaging and marketing in order to increase production levels and sales.

Develop the Institutional Structure of the Scientific Research Fund - MoHE
Developed strategic and business plans for the Jordan Scientific Research Fund through defining clear goals and objectives, designing an organization structure complete with roles, responsibilities and job descriptions, and developing a comprehensive operational manual with standard operating procedures (SOP). The work completed will enable the SRF to focus its activities on national priorities which will contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness of the respected economic sectors.

Enhancing the productivity of Irbid Industrial Sector
Design and implementation of industry-community bridging and communication activities aiming to create linkages and increase understanding of the importance of integrating the industrial sector into the local communities, which will result in increasing employment in the various industrial factories and the Irbid QIZ. Along with the implementation of various capacity building activities’ program for the main industrial sector stakeholders by enhancing their skills to create a supportive stand towards the industry and to encourage investment in industrial projects leading to better integration. This will be achieved through a number of structured training sessions and events in the Irbid region targeting segments the following main stakeholders.

Capturing organizational reform resources for Jordanian BA
Provision of organizational reform resources to the Jordanian Business Association with the aim of enabling the Association to develop its current strategies, continually update and improve key areas of institutional performance, and ultimately champion development efforts to enhance their own performance, and that of their members.
Resources provided covered the following key areas: strategy, performance, knowledge and human resources management. governance, policy advocacy, financial management and revenue generating services, standardization, education and training, market research and communication, marketing and public relations. Additionally, resources were provided in the forms of checklists, web links, templates, case studies, standard operating procedures, templates, training materials, case studies, illustrative examples, articles and whitepapers. All resources were published as an integrated system using HTML pages to simplify access and use.

Organizational Assessment of 14 Ministry of Labor Employment Offices
Assessed the current organizational status of the Employment Directorates and sections, and currently developing their model organizational structure, job descriptions, training needs, human resources (HR) needs, internal systems and standard operating procedures(SOP), and monitoring and evaluation framework. Additionally, providing training on internal systems in addition to soft skills, management skills and employment related topics.

Streamlining Environmental licensing Procedures at MoEnv
Support MoEnv in developing and implementing an integrated environmental licensing system, that is linked with the inspection and enforcement system and other relevant systems in MoEnv. This required establishing a clear and concise understanding of the current licensing/permitting process and its legal mandate by capturing and documenting the current environmental licensing/permitting process implemented by the licensing department at MoEnv, and it also required identifying the constraints that prevented the environmental licensing department at the Ministry of Environment from implementing the recommendations of previous capacity building projects provided by the EU or the World Bank.

Marketing & Product Design Workshop
Designed and conducted a workshop for Jordanian Designers on Marketing and Design Role in Business Management. The workshop emphasized on the creativity and design thinking across the board in the business in addition to the effect of packaging as a good marketing tool. This workshop aimed at increasing the competitiveness of the products design and packaging and paving the road to create designers’ community with common interest that enables potential partnerships and foster linkages between the designers and manufacturers.

Associations Capacity Building for Business Plan Development (Tomato & Citrus)
Development of a 10 year feasibility study and business plan for a Grading and Packing Facility in Ghour Safi area including marketing, technical, financial and managerial aspects. The project involves coordination with, and capacity building of stakeholders, in the Ghour Safi region and identification of the current and projected interaction mechanisms between the farmers, exporters and the Grading Facility Management.

Mentoring A&E companies to develop their business plans
Supporting members of the Architecture and Engineering business Council in developing their strategic business plans through training and mentorship. The beneficiaries were provided with advice to support initiating strategic thinking for their businesses and tools to define their strategic direction and develop a strategic plan.

A&E Business Council Training Needs Assessment
A&E training needs assessment through identification of needs, analysis, and report in the following key areas: business and finance, Project Management and Human Resources Management Training skill requirements for the 19 A&E Business Council Members in Amman. Further, identification and analysis of standards and certified training in business, financial, project management, and human resource management that can be provided through A& E BC or other entities. Finally, identification of stakeholders’ roles in implementing the training strategy.

Assessment of Current Pricing Policy on Pharma Sector
Assistance to JAPM in achieving the following assessments and reviews:
- Understanding the legal framework of the pricing regulation.
- Reviewing the current pricing policy/practices and assessing its impact on the sector’s profitability and competitiveness.
- Assessing the impact of current pricing policy/practices on the Jordanian economy.
- Reviewing the implications of having higher prices for imported generics vs. local generics.
- Reviewing the current price increase approval process and recommending an improved institutionalized mechanism for price increase requests as required.

This was followed by a detailed reporting on following: current situation regarding pricing, and data collected on (10) products for further economic analysis, report on current prices policies, and regional legal systems and the drafting of a scope for the next phase of the projects, in order start the process implementing the set tasks.

IT Infrastructure Assessment and Business Requirements Analysis for a Virtual One Stop Shop
Implementation of a detailed business process analysis of the four entities to which the Irbid Business Facilitation Center will be electronically linked during phase 1 of the IBFC implementation strategy. The process analysis will support parallel work done by the IT consultant to conduct an IT infrastructure assessment for the same entities.

Economic Baseline Update
Update the Governorates of Karak and Irbid regional baseline reports including updating their basic and generic economic and demographic indicators. Moreover, targeted economic data is collected on the priority sectors in both governorates such as agricultural, tourism, light manufacturing and industrial sectors to enable focused sectoral interventions targeting the areas with highest potential.

JEA Members Export Development Support
Assisted JEA in the design of a standard export development process and an export manual to be used by firms when they are planning and preparing for export. Further mentorship assistance was delivered to 5 selected SME firms on the types of services and required skills needed by exporters to successfully export. The mentorship program included export audit, export readiness assessment, export plans, export development and export finance.

Preparation of an indicative FY 2009 budget for JDZC
Developed an indicative operating budget for the newly established Commission for the 2009 fiscal year. The work included review of background documents on the role and responsibilities of the Commission and on its financial scope and budgetary needs; conduct individual meetings with relevant officials and stakeholders involved with the Commission to obtain additional input on budgetary needs, approaches, and timelines; draft an indicative operating budget and present it to the head Commissioner.

Preparing Environmental Inspection User Manual
Prepare a “User Manual” that consists of narrative standard operating procedures and forms that will be used by the inspection team of the Ministry of Environment to implement their inspection work. The project also aims to complement the Environmental Inspection expert mission with the MoEnv to set up its environmental inspection strategy and principles based on international best practices, and to develop an inspection training plan to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the MoEnv Inspections.

Labor Inspection Process and System Implementation and Deployment
Technical assistance to the Jordan Ministry of labor (MOL) was extended to develop an inspection manual and train key inspectors. The work was done as a model and pilot implementation of the Inspection Reform Project of IFC and aimed at translating the IFC inspection reform results including; the inspection reform policies, and the guiding concepts, knowledge and skills, into a procedural system. The developed inspection manual serves as a practical resource to labor inspectorate in planning the inspection work, assists inspectors’ day to day work activities, and ultimately, brings a degree of consistency and uniformity to inspection work.

Developing a Communication and Marketing plan for JFBPW
Development of an integrated marketing and communication plan for Jordan Forum for Business and Professional Women (JFBPW). Each of the communication and marketing plan will be utilized by JFBPW to reach a larger audience and assist in the development of its an action plan as well as assess JFBPW’s needs and resources needed to achieve its goals and objectives.

Development of Management Strategy for Jordan Society for Scientific Research
Developed strategic and business plans for the Jordan Scientific Research Fund through defining clear goals and objectives, designing an organization structure complete with roles, responsibilities and job descriptions, and developing a comprehensive operational manual with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). The work completed will enable the SRF to focus its activities on national priorities which will contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness of the respected economic sectors. The assignment included training and capacity building for Fund’s staff on maintaining and updating the developed SOPs.

Developing Strategic Plan for the Development Zones Commission (DZC)
Development of a three-year strategic plan for the Development Zones Commission (DZC). This was achieved through an interactive approach-based methodology, whereby several discussions took place with key personnel of the DZC along with a strategic retreat covering the main topics to include setting-up the vision, mission, values, strategic objectives, performance metrics / key performance indicators, and action plans. Further exercises were carried out to cover SWOT analysis, mapping out key differentiators as well as a stockholders’ analysis.

Developing Business Plans for Enterprises Development
Supported three associations in Karak to develop business plans for the associations projects; build the internal capacity of the associations' personnel in the area of developing and updating Business Plans for future projects; in addition to enhance their financial sustainability in terms of increasing their revenues, and creating successful business models in the Karak region.