The practice shows that even the most rigorous and high-quality evaluations do not guarantee that their findings and recommendations will be used underscoring the need for deliberate efforts to embed evaluation use within decision-making processes. While research on the factors influencing the use of evaluations continues to evolve, several best practices have emerged to enhance their uptake. These include producing more accessible formats such as short reports, briefs, and videos, as well as offering one-on-one briefings to engage stakeholders effectively and meaningfully. Participatory approaches, such as workshops to refine or co-create recommendations, have also gained attention as strategies to foster ownership and relevance.
I would like to contribute to the discussion by sharing a few resources that the CGIAR IAES Evaluation Function has been working on to improve the use of evidence and evaluations in CGIAR and beyond:
Mapping Evaluation Management Practices in International Research and Development Organizations Link: https://iaes.cgiar.org/sites/default/files/pdf/Mapping%20management%20practices_final%2029%20August_0.pdf This study explores how evaluation management practices affect the use of evaluation findings and recommendations in decision-making, policies, and actions. It maps practices across independent evaluation entities and highlights perceptions of evaluation use in multilateral organizations. Beyond CGIAR, the study seeks to spark wider dialogue within the evaluation community on how management arrangements can enhance the relevance and influence of evaluations. Drawing on a literature review and the mapping of evaluation management practices, it offers conclusions and recommendations organized around the key phases of an evaluation.
Management Response Systems to Evaluations: Benchmarking Review Link: https://cgspace.cgiar.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/46ead1fc-5f24-45a6-a908-478cced8a811/content This benchmarking study maps existing Management Response structures, processes, and review methodologies, exploring best practices in implementation, oversight mechanisms, and tracking systems to support evaluation uptake.
RE: How to Ensure Effective Utilization of Feedback and Recommendations from Evaluation Reports in Decision-Making
Italy
Ibtissem Jouini
Senior Evaluation Manager
CGIAR
Posted on 02/09/2025
Dear Monica,
The practice shows that even the most rigorous and high-quality evaluations do not guarantee that their findings and recommendations will be used underscoring the need for deliberate efforts to embed evaluation use within decision-making processes. While research on the factors influencing the use of evaluations continues to evolve, several best practices have emerged to enhance their uptake. These include producing more accessible formats such as short reports, briefs, and videos, as well as offering one-on-one briefings to engage stakeholders effectively and meaningfully. Participatory approaches, such as workshops to refine or co-create recommendations, have also gained attention as strategies to foster ownership and relevance.
I would like to contribute to the discussion by sharing a few resources that the CGIAR IAES Evaluation Function has been working on to improve the use of evidence and evaluations in CGIAR and beyond:
Link: https://iaes.cgiar.org/sites/default/files/pdf/Mapping%20management%20practices_final%2029%20August_0.pdf
This study explores how evaluation management practices affect the use of evaluation findings and recommendations in decision-making, policies, and actions. It maps practices across independent evaluation entities and highlights perceptions of evaluation use in multilateral organizations. Beyond CGIAR, the study seeks to spark wider dialogue within the evaluation community on how management arrangements can enhance the relevance and influence of evaluations. Drawing on a literature review and the mapping of evaluation management practices, it offers conclusions and recommendations organized around the key phases of an evaluation.
Link: https://cgspace.cgiar.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/46ead1fc-5f24-45a6-a908-478cced8a811/content
This benchmarking study maps existing Management Response structures, processes, and review methodologies, exploring best practices in implementation, oversight mechanisms, and tracking systems to support evaluation uptake.
Link: https://iaes.cgiar.org/sites/default/files/pdf/Review%20of%20CGIAR%20Management%20Response%20System%20to%20Independent%20Evaluations%20_1.pdf
The CGIAR IAES Evaluation Function conducted this review of the CGIAR Management Response System. Aligned with both accountability and learning objectives, the review assessed the effectiveness and efficiency of the CGIAR MR system.
Best regards,
Ibtissem Jouini