[2006] This paper is the result of an inter-institutional expert consultation organized by FAO and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) in October 2004.

The overall aim of the workshop was to identify key issues in research-extension linkages and explore communication approaches and tools that can provide effective linkage mechanisms in line with the Millennium Development Goals.

The document explores six critical success factors that are necessary to ensure effective design and implementation of rural development projects: policy, capacity development, monitoring and evaluation, farmers and other rural organizations, participatory methods and media strategy.