All projects must have long-term plans. It is estimated that half of all water and sanitation projects fail after 5 years. Sustainable projects maintain the local water source and build local capacity in order to maintain and operate a water system. This requires the involvement of the local community, local government, and local businesses. For each system that doesn't have to be replaced, more resources will be available in the future for new projects.
GWC measures impacts and benefits consistently, communicating these clearly throughout the project. Monitoring programs and sharing information helps communities, governments, local entrepreneurs, and non-profits working in this sector. Having access to results allows leaders in the field to replicate the program on their own.
GWC invests in successful models with the potential to expand beyond a particular area. These models should be flexible enough to meet the demands of individual localities.