ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the South African research situation, the use of appropriate evaluation criteria in a research investigation of the nature, outlines a defined research schedule. It examines the other research methods employed in this particular research investigation, before considering the question of how the assessment of Local Economic Development (LED) projects can be undertaken. When undertaking an LED-type investigation, a variety of research and assessment criteria need to be employed in order to ensure accuracy and objectivity. In assessing the various projects and LED in general, cognizance was taken of the argument that assessment of community based projects cannot focus purely on economic criteria. When evaluating LED in marginal areas and communities Walter Stohr cautions that success often needs to be gauged in a relative sense. The notion of empowerment has been identified as a key ingredient in any development initiative as it allows for local control of the process of development and self-actualization.
