Each of the CMI dimensions has been developed to include a number of sub-dimensions - each with its own set of indicators. These four dimensions can be represented on a graph matrix as presented here:

The CMI presents a set of indicators sufficiently standardised to allow for comparisons across a maximum number of projects while remaining flexible enough to accommodate the diversity of projects the sector encompasses as well as the various significant contextual differences. 

A number of participatory action-research tools facilitate the collection of data and can facilitate a participatory assessment of the data. Many of these tools are built on the ground broken by Keystone in the development of their Capabilities Profiler, Developing a Theory of Change, Learning with Stakeholders, Becoming Eco-Intelligent, and Public Reporting Framework (http://www.keystoneaccountability.org).

Once the initial assessment has been completed (represented by the solid red line in the diagram below), participatory action-planning tools will be deployed to develop goals and action steps based on the assessment. These goals/action steps are represented by the broken blue line in the following diagram: