Determine the indicator's value by using the following methodology:
1) Define what the most important functions of the target self-help groups are, for example:
> holding regular meetings of the group members
> regularly collecting money from the users (e.g. for savings)
> providing financial assistance (e.g. loans) to the members
> ensuring relevant and up to date records of income and expenditures
> other functions depending on the self-help groups' purpose and context
2) Set the minimum number of the most important functions that need to be performed in order for the indicator to be met (for example, at least 7 out of 10 functions - 70%).
3) Assess (through interviewing the group members and the key informants, review of records, observation, etc.) whether the self-help groups perform the functions.
4) Conclude whether the self-help group performs the minimum number of the core functions; consider whether not meeting certain most crucial functions should automatically lead to marking the group as "not functional".
5) Calculate the indicator's value by summing up the number of self-help groups which perform the minimum number of their core functions.