The Matrix is an information tool developed by the Secretariat at the request of the 13th session of the Commission on Sustainable Development. It is meant to timely compile the policy options and practical measures contained the Chairman's summary of the interactive discussions held at the Intergovernmental Preparatory Meeting, so as to make it a living document, and to develop web-based tools to disseminate information on implementation and best practices (Page 17 of E/2005/29; E/CN.17/2005/12).

The Matrix is an information tool developed by the Secretariat at the request of the CSD-16 Bureau. It aims to provide user-friendly information on practical experiences in implementation in the thematic areas of agriculture, rural development, land, drought, desertification and Africa. It is based on information submitted by Governments, including through national reports; and by UN agencies, international and regional organizations and by Major Groups. It takes into account information contained in Secretary-General's reports and Partnerships for Sustainable Development registered with the CSD Secretariat, as well as information emerging from the regional implementation meetings.

The Matrix is not an official outcome document of the CSD. As an information tool, it is a work in progress. The Secretariat will continue to update the Matrix as more information on implementation is made available.

The Matrix seeks to provide the user with a convenient overview of concrete experiences in addressing barriers and constraints identified in the areas of agriculture, rural development, land, drought, desertification and Africa.

It consists of four columns and is structured as follows:

1. Barriers/Constraints:
   Information in this column is based on Secretary-General's Reports, national reports, reports of Regional Implementation Meetings and the related background documents, and inputs from Major Groups and CSD Partnerships.
2. Case studies:
   Case studies are drawn from Secretary-General's Reports, national reports, reports of Regional Implementation Meetings and the related background documents, and inputs from Major Groups and CSD Partnerships, as well as case studies submitted for CSD-16.
3. Lessons learned:
   Best practices or results. This column provides a snapshot overview of the lessons learned, best practices or results of the particular case study.
4. Key implementation actors:
   This column indicates key implementation actors, based on information contained in the case studies.