6. Lessons learned and corrective actions

6.1 Measuring Progress: Strategic Considerations

Extensive research was undertaken to develop an approach to weighting the results of our strategy. The result was the creation of an Index of Sustainable Development Progress (ISDP). The ISDP was applied to the 2005-2006 results, however, before it can be fully adopted the methodology must be validated. Among the criteria to be used to assess the methodology is whether it provides reproducible results, is cost effective, and provides genuine insight into the CRA's SD performance. Assessment of the ISDP methodology will continue in 2006-2007.

The development of data sources to measure progress on SD is expected to be an ongoing challenge. Measurement of results is directly linked to the availability of data, and data quality. In consideration of the high cost of developing new data sources, it is anticipated that more effort will be needed to develop existing data sets to extract the information needed for effective measurement of SD progress.

6.2 Project Management Considerations

A total of 13 activities were added to the SD work plan in 2005-2006. Some of these were deferred from 2004-2005, while others were added as a result of a closer examination and logical breakdown of existing activities, primarily in Goal 1. While these additional activities did not impose an excessive burden, when combined with some staff turnover during the period, the increase in the volume of work did pose challenges to full completion of scheduled SD activities.

The CRA's branch SD Coordinator function is staffed on a part-time, volunteer basis. In addition to their regular duties, an employee in each branch is given responsibility for implementation and coordination of the branch's customized SD action plan. To address the high turnover rate of SD Coordinators, a training program was implemented to familiarize new SD Coordinators with their roles and responsibilities.

6.3 Report of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development

The CESD's 2005 report confirmed that the CRA is moving in the right direction in its approach to sustainable development. Effective partnerships between functional organizations with the CRA has proven very important in moving forward with green procurement. We will continue to expand our green procurement program, and will apply the lessons learned regarding effective partnerships in other areas.

Leadership among senior management ranks was essential for ensuring adoption of the CRA's environmental policy. Keeping the environment and sustainable development on the agenda will be necessary for continued progress. The CESD reported that there was room for improving how the CRA articulates the role and fit of the SD Strategy with other Agency strategies and plans. The CRA will examine options for improving these linkages during the development of its 2007-2010 SD Strategy.

Date modified:

2007-03-26