The purpose of this paper is to provide information to groups applying to the African Development Foundation (ADF) about the factors to consider as they design a new community water supply system that will be both sustainable and successful in meeting the established needs of their community. This information can be transmitted and discussed withincommunity meetings by community leaders accustomed to dealing with written materials, or by the ADF Country Liaison Officer (CLO) as he/she begins initial discussions with a community that has initiated a water supply proposal.