This sourcebook provides guidance on how to improve the involvement of stakeholders, in the systematic assessment of options in planning exercises for water, and energy services. Ranging from policy formulation, to project planning, it draws on case studies of programs, and projects that considered the development, rehabilitation, and operation of dams. It is also intended for water users and stakeholders involved in dam-related planning processes, and for those involved in policy dialogues focused on improvements in participatory planning in the water sector. The benefits of stakeholder involvement, and options assessment are enumerated, all concepts that imply a change in investment patterns for water and energy development. Discussions then focus on four principles that can be used to guide, and facilitate involvement in options assessment: development of supportive instruments on which the assessment of options can rely on, e.g., legal and regulatory framework
capacity strengthening
participatory approach
and, risk assessment. Finally, for the assessment process to operate in a timely manner, agreed rules, and structured procedures - including information provision and professional facilitation - should be readily available, for later enforcement, if and when needed.