Attempts to organize two businesses, one group and the other individual, emphasized the importance of economic and social conditions to one african group. Some of the lessons they learnt: Always select a product or service with strong local demand. Put the chosen product or service to a careful and long test of continuing sales. Use every available agency or individual resource, without creating permanent dependence on them. Keep the project design simple, especially in the early stages. Use paid staff to do careful organizing, or else it will not get done. Build on the long-standing traditions of women in forming clubs in the course of forming a new one.