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Strategic Development

Led by Roy Pratt, the staff and consultants in Strategic Development Division specialize in product development, partner and member development and information management strategy.  

 

Network Product Development -  In addition to developing and refining transformational financial products and services, Strategic Development aims to positively impact client retention, growth and sustainability, and to work with partners in the continuing development of a client-centric approach towards the transformational impact of products and services.  A key part of this process is gaining a better understanding of client needs and the impact of environmental factors in the countries where Opportunity operates. 

 

Partner and Member Development - A team of Representative Directors and Partner Resource Managers develop and implement strategies for partner and member organizations which require significant resource allocation.   While working with a team of regional microfinance experts, organizations.

 

Information Management Strategy - In conjunction with the MIS Division, Strategic Development develops the information management capability of the Opportunity International Network. Together, these divisions will develop an information technology environment which automates the delivery of monthly financial and  management reports for designated organizations.

 

Loans – Opportunity develops tailored lending products, including its trademarked Trust Bank group-lending program, solidarity group loans and individual loans.

 

Savings Accounts – Opportunity banks have opened more than 100,000 voluntary savings accounts for the poor – worth $37 million. The Opportunity International Bank Malawi (OIBM) opened 40,000 savings accounts in its first years of operation and has distributed its credit-card-sized identification “smart card” to each client.

 

Smart Card – allows clients to identify themselves by simply scanning their fingerprint which is embedded in a chip on the card. This enables clients to securely access their accounts from hundreds of distribution outlets throughout the country.

 

Training Modules – Opportunity developed more than 400 training modules – ranging from basic accounting to AIDS education – that are offered in weekly Trust Bank group-lending meetings. These modules not only help clients learn key principles for expanding their businesses, but they also give them access to information that address social needs.

 

Client Retention – Data is being collected an on-going basis from various partners in Asia and Latin America to analyze client retention. The division expects to produce a report within the year.