This general issue allows for articles on a wider range of themes, contexts, and countries. It starts with a ‘mini-theme’: the generation of numbers through participatory approaches - and in particular aggregrating and using those numbers beyond the community level, an area in which there is growing interest. These articles take a critical look at issues such as:· How to find ways of standardising the data;·Aggregating the numbers for higher level planning and policy purposes;·The question of ethics: whether using participatory methods in this way is necessarily ‘extractive’ or whether there can be something in it for communities;·Examines the scope for empowerment; and,·How to maintain quality, both methodologically and ethically?Other articles discuss issues such as:taking stock of PRA and its current status;·what good PRA practice is what PRA is really about or for;·the role of trainers and practitioners; and,·critical reflections from practice.PLA Notes 47 also includes the usually In Touch resources section, e-participation website reviews, and Tips for Trainers.