The introductory part covers four topics
that essentially address different aspects of the course title: Making Microfinance Work:
Managing for Improved Performance. Module 1 describes the managers’ mandate, including
the four functions of management, different management styles and the characteristics of
effective managers. Module 2 tackles the microfinance thread, briefly introducing the
range of financial services that are relevant to the low-income market. The rest of the section
sets the stage and context for improving performance. Module 3 considers the formal,
semi-formal and informal institutional options through which microfinance can be
delivered. It highlights that managers can choose to transition from one institutional type
to another, or partner with other types to accomplish goals and overcome environmental
challenges. Module 4 considers the MFI’s strategic direction, including the critical issues
of vision, mission, values and objectives that collectively define the performance that
managers should seek to achieve.求高人翻译