Perception and attitude on water governance: design of indicators for Irrigation Districts in Mexico

Abstract

Objective: to define the selection criteria for the design and validation of a methodological tool that operationalizes the water governance concept across the perception and attitude of stakeholders for efficient water management in Irrigation Districts.

Design/methodology/approach: a questionnaire was designed and validated to assess perception and attitude variables in water governance, structuring the methodology in four phases. Initially, a contextualized conceptual framework was constructed to define a system of indicators with theoretical rigour. Subsequently, the psychometric operationalization of the variables into measurable items was carried out. A priori validation was performed using the Delphi technique, with a multidisciplinary panel of experts. Finally, a posteriori validation will empirically contrast the results to consolidate a robust diagnostic tool for longitudinal application.

Limitations/implications: the subjective nature of the constructs measured (perception and attitude), whose validity may be compromised in relation to observable behaviors. Nevertheless, the instrument is a reliable methodological tool for the empirical diagnosis and longitudinal monitoring of water governance.

Findings/conclusions: a methodological tool was developed that operationalizes intangible constructs of perception and attitude into quantifiable indicators for water governance. Validated using the Delphi method, it allows critical indicators such as institutional trust and perceived equity to be measured. This tool is a strategic resource for longitudinal diagnoses and the design of interventions towards more transparent and efficient water management.