ABSTRACT
There are currently significant changes taking place in society as a whole. Disintegration of traditional support networks and the resulting increased isolation and insecurity are affecting those least able to cope. Reorganization in many fields of work is resulting in fragmentation of services, yet this is accompanied by a desire for greater accountability and more user participation in choices affecting service provision. Organizations working in development worldwide are looking for ways to empower communities to express their needs and tell their own stories.
