Evaluation is about the systematic collection and analysis of processes, outputs and outcomes to allow us to make statements, judgments, claims and conclusions which have the potential to impact on current and future decision-making.

This definition highlights the need to have robust data collection systems in place from the start of the program and to build evaluation into everyday activities wherever possible.  The aim is to make evaluation easy by being clear about what data is to be collected, when and how and by whom.

Recent Posts on Evaluation Tools

• The ‘quantum’ leap from theory to practice

  Jeff I am finding that the jump from understanding M&E Information needs to allocating data collection methods is a bigger chasm than I thought.  After training workshops, participants who become reasonably proficient at developing a log frame ...

• 5 golden MER rules for 2012

  For those who came in late, MER stands for Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting.  Many of you who receive this newsletter have worked with us in some way in the MER process – and hopefully found some tools and information through the newsletter and ...

• Monitoring Uptake strategies

  by: Jeff Coutts In the QualDATA Log Frame there is a level that is called “Uptake Strategies”. This is the link between research and development and achieving change on the ground. We don’t call it “extension” (as in the old technology ...

• Determining KASA

  The term KASA comes from Bennett’s Hierarchy – a table that maps out inputs to outcomes for extension programs.  It stands for Knowledge, Attitudes, Skills & Aspiration.  These are the changes that are seen to need to happen in people�...

• 5 useful M&E online resources

  Sometimes when I’m working on or planning an evaluation I go hunting for online resources that could provide me with useful insights. It is interesting to see how different frameworks and approaches work and what they might value-add to what we d...