It was often difficult to maintain a balance between applying participatory methodologies and implementing the project efficiently. Projects must be grouped in order to increase efficiency. The dispersed rural communities of Bolivia require projects to be grouped to increase efficiency and achieve economies of scale. Grouping projects reduces the number of intermediaries and simplifies preparation, appraisal, procurement, and implementation. It also generates momentum, as new communities see projects work in neighboring communities and ask to participate.
Institutional support is essential.
Most rural water supply and sanitation projects aim to deliver services managed by the community without further government intervention. However, the Yacupaj experience shows that communities need long-term technical and institutional support. Communities rarely undertake preventive maintenance or monitor water quality. Although the private sector can provide skills and spare parts, communities continue to need training and technical assistance to solve some problems, especially when water committee members leave the community. Yacupaj demonstrated the need for local governments to play a role in rural water and sanitation projects.