Practical implications for development projects follow from thinking in terms of social capital. Some of these have emerged of their own accord from field experience, but interpreting these findings from a social capital perspective will hopefully ensure that lessons are circulated more rapidly, and that they rest on a wider foundation of support. But their very success may change the conditions that made it possible for them to intervene in the first place. By improving their economic well-being, the poor may be less dependent on their families and neighbors, and may need social bridges to enter larger and wealthier networks in order to expand their businesses.
Projects also require the input of more influential stakeholders.
Infrastructure Enables Participation and Partnerships Projects can draw on the social capital of various stakeholders, but they can also serve to enhance it. The benefits of social capital are greatest when it helps individuals and groups to transcend class, gender, ethnic, and religious divides. A fairer judicial system, for example, can foster the conditions that make it possible for the poor to organize in their collective interest and bargaining power.