Sigma supports its partners in their efforts to improve governance and management by:

• Assessing reform progress and identifying priorities against baselines set by good European practice and existing EU legislation (acquis communautaire);
• Assisting decision-makers and administrations in building institutions and setting up legal frameworks and procedures to meet European standards and good practice;
• Facilitating assistance from the EU and other donors inside and outside Europe by helping to design projects, ensuring preconditions and supporting implementation.

Sigma assists the EC in the design and implementation of reform programmes, drawing from OECD expertise in governance and management in EU/OECD Member States and from its own experience of support in public administration reform to partners in Central and Eastern Europe and in the Western Balkans.

Working Methods

Sigma's operation framework is based on a partnership with its beneficiaries. Its procedures are flexible to ensure a quick and adequate response to the priorities identified by each partner and to their specific requests for support.

Projects can be initiated by partners, the EC or Sigma. The one absolute requirement for each project is that it reflects the reform priorities of the Sigma Programme and supports the achievement of EC institution-building objectives. As soon as the project document has been developed by the parties involved, it is submitted to the EC for ex ante approval. Following a short turnaround cycle of 10 days, the project can be launched.

Sigma's working methods are always adaptable to the specific needs and priorities of each partner. While one partner may require intensive support in developing a professional civil service, another may focus its efforts mainly on strengthening public internal financial control systems. In other cases, Sigma may be asked to lend support in the design of public administration reform programmes. An ongoing collaboration between Sigma and partner institutions and practitioners is vital so that priority actions match priority needs.

Delivery Mechanisms

Sigma makes use of a variety of operational delivery mechanisms, including:

• Advice on reforms, design and implementation of strategic development plans;
• Peer reviews/assistance;
• Analysis and assessment of legal frameworks, methodologies, systems and institutions;
• Methodological, technical and strategic input to optimise Commission assistance;
• Support to networks;
• Drafting of handbooks and other reference material;
• Training.