We help clients access the information and insights they need to make decisions with confidence. Using quantitative and qualitative research methods, we ensure decisions are based on defensible evidence
One of the major obstacles to effective engagement within the minerals sector is lack of knowledge concerning production and trade in producer nations. This information gap is often greatest in the artisanal and small-scale mining sector, where weak governance, the geographic spread of activity, and associated issues such as underdeveloped infrastructure and informality complicate effective and reliable data collection. Without trustworthy data, private sector due diligence on sources can be challenging and costly, and the policy direction of public sector institutions and their corresponding interventions may be sub-optimal.
Our research work is grounded in the belief that decision making should follow evidence-based principles. Whether you are a refiner or precious metals trader, a government, donor or civil society organisation, your interventions are more likely to succeed if they are founded on sound information and insights. At Levin Sources we have developed industry-leading research tools and methodologies that can be applied to assess granular detail (such as risks associated with a particular source in a client’s supply chain), and to accurately depict the bigger picture (such as national-level baseline and diagnostic assessments). We also provide high-quality desk-based research outputs according to client needs; from identifying best practices to inform programming, to problem solving and innovation based on lessons derived from past and present experience.
Our experts have conducted research related to mineral sector governance and responsible business conduct, with a focus on artisanal and small-scale mining, in more than 85 countries world-wide. Our experience and networks mean that we not only have access to relevant and reliable sources – and know how and when to ask the right questions – but we understand the relevance of the information and data generated and can apply this to clients’ specific needs.
Key services:
- Baseline and diagnostic assessments
- Value chain analysis
- Market research
- Political economy assessments
- Best practice research / gap assessments
- Action research – innovation, problem solving
- Institutional capacity assessments / reviews
