Your analysis is highly insightful and warrants further consideration, particularly regarding the need to rethink the purpose of evaluation beyond a mere focus on compliance.
The proposed reflection raises a fundamental and pertinent question: that of the true purpose of evaluation. Indeed, if evaluation is reduced to a compliance function, it is limited to verifying whether the actions taken correspond to the initial forecasts, without truly questioning their relevance, their impact or their ability to adapt to changing realities.
From this perspective, the introduction of forward-looking methods into an evaluation confined to a compliance-based approach appears insufficient. It even risks reproducing the same patterns, by simply projecting already fixed assumptions into the future, without questioning the analytical frameworks. Thus, anticipating the future without transforming the purpose of evaluation amounts to prolonging a retrospective approach in another form.
Consequently, the central issue becomes the transformation of the role of evaluation. It is no longer merely a matter of confirming a plan, but of questioning the assumptions underpinning it, identifying the gaps between intentions and results, and above all, supporting decision-making in uncertain contexts. A forward-looking evaluation must be a tool for learning, adaptation and innovation.
Freeing evaluation from the obligation to confirm the plan entails several major changes. Firstly, accepting that programmes may evolve in line with realities on the ground. Secondly, incorporating more flexible approaches, such as real-time evaluation or adaptive learning. Finally, recognising that evaluation can produce critical findings, sometimes at odds with the initial objectives.
However, this transformation is not without its challenges. It requires a shift in institutional culture, where decision-makers accept uncertainty and questioning. It also necessitates enhanced technical capabilities and greater openness to stakeholder participation.
In conclusion, evaluation can only truly incorporate a forward-looking dimension if it breaks free from its strictly normative function. It must evolve towards a strategic role, focused on learning and anticipation, in order to better address the complex and dynamic challenges of public policy.
RE: From Hindsight to Foresight: How Evaluation Can Become Future-Informed
Senegal
Amy MARA
Economiste et Specialiste en Passation de Marché
Direction de la Dette Publique
Posted on 17/04/2026
Hello,
My dear Silva,
Your analysis is highly insightful and warrants further consideration, particularly regarding the need to rethink the purpose of evaluation beyond a mere focus on compliance.
The proposed reflection raises a fundamental and pertinent question: that of the true purpose of evaluation. Indeed, if evaluation is reduced to a compliance function, it is limited to verifying whether the actions taken correspond to the initial forecasts, without truly questioning their relevance, their impact or their ability to adapt to changing realities.
From this perspective, the introduction of forward-looking methods into an evaluation confined to a compliance-based approach appears insufficient. It even risks reproducing the same patterns, by simply projecting already fixed assumptions into the future, without questioning the analytical frameworks. Thus, anticipating the future without transforming the purpose of evaluation amounts to prolonging a retrospective approach in another form.
Consequently, the central issue becomes the transformation of the role of evaluation. It is no longer merely a matter of confirming a plan, but of questioning the assumptions underpinning it, identifying the gaps between intentions and results, and above all, supporting decision-making in uncertain contexts. A forward-looking evaluation must be a tool for learning, adaptation and innovation.
Freeing evaluation from the obligation to confirm the plan entails several major changes. Firstly, accepting that programmes may evolve in line with realities on the ground. Secondly, incorporating more flexible approaches, such as real-time evaluation or adaptive learning. Finally, recognising that evaluation can produce critical findings, sometimes at odds with the initial objectives.
However, this transformation is not without its challenges. It requires a shift in institutional culture, where decision-makers accept uncertainty and questioning. It also necessitates enhanced technical capabilities and greater openness to stakeholder participation.
In conclusion, evaluation can only truly incorporate a forward-looking dimension if it breaks free from its strictly normative function. It must evolve towards a strategic role, focused on learning and anticipation, in order to better address the complex and dynamic challenges of public policy.
Amy MARA
Economist
Dakar, Senegal