A key decision support tool under development is EXTRAPOLATE (EX-ante Tool for RAnking POLicy AlTErnatives). This is a participatory tool that enables users to visualize the predicted impacts of policy interventions on livelihood outcomes, based on numerical analysis. EXTRAPOLATE serves as a rapid screening device to carry out quick assessments of likely candidate policy changes that may have particularly beneficial impacts on the poor in particular situations, the most promising of which can be explored in greater detail in terms of costs and feasibility of implementation, and expected outcomes on different groups.

In collaboration with the University of Berkeley, the project is developing a methodology termed Integrated Poverty Assessment for Livestock Promotion (IPALP), which aims to support more quantitative livestock policy analysis, with deeper insight into economic conditions, behaviour, and market linkages. For the Pro-Poor Livestock Policy Initiative (PPLPI), Integrated Poverty Assessments (IPAs) of this kind can serve as an important evaluation tool both ex-ante and ex-post. Analysis of initial conditions can improve identification of target groups and anticipate their needs for effective program support and market access. Continuing and ex-post economic assessment can strengthen ongoing program implementation and increase effectiveness of future programs.

The Technology Impact and Policy Impact Calculation Model (TIPI-CAL v4.0) is a tool to analyse impacts of technology and policy changes on farm households. The PPLPI is adapting this tool to developing country circumstances and applying it in PPLPI focus countries. The household model is flexible in terms of a 10 year strategy analysis with reference to changes in both non-farm and farm activities, liability allocation, household asset management, living expenses, capital inflow and outflow, etc. The model is being adapted to include non-cash aspects and risk and variability associated with smallholder dairy farming.