United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
Posted on 21/08/2024
Evaluative Assessment- I have heard this recently. While I haven't seen a concrete EA report, judging from what I have read, I find it difficult to accept EA as an important step towards credible evaluation. A program/project with a sound logframe, and M&E Framework where indicators are clearly defined, with well-defined disaggregation methods, data sources, methods of data collection, analysis, etc. all defined before implementation. The project has implemented DQA throughout, to be aware of the data quality issues, and has taken measures to improve the quality of data. The project/program has implemented After Action Reviews (AAR) and other reflections to correct gaps.
Amid all these, well-defined M&E Framework, consistent DQA, etc. I do not feel that EA is important, but a smart way of filling any loopholes that are likely to be picked up by the evaluation team. I do not think this is the best way of using donor funds. I rather strengthen the M&E System that will deliver and ensure that the project/program is evaluative at all times rather than putting resources into conducting EA, and after evaluation.
RE: Evaluability Assessments: An invitation to reflect and discuss
Liberia
Musa K. Sanoe
National M&E Specialist
United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
Posted on 21/08/2024
Evaluative Assessment- I have heard this recently. While I haven't seen a concrete EA report, judging from what I have read, I find it difficult to accept EA as an important step towards credible evaluation. A program/project with a sound logframe, and M&E Framework where indicators are clearly defined, with well-defined disaggregation methods, data sources, methods of data collection, analysis, etc. all defined before implementation. The project has implemented DQA throughout, to be aware of the data quality issues, and has taken measures to improve the quality of data. The project/program has implemented After Action Reviews (AAR) and other reflections to correct gaps.
Amid all these, well-defined M&E Framework, consistent DQA, etc. I do not feel that EA is important, but a smart way of filling any loopholes that are likely to be picked up by the evaluation team. I do not think this is the best way of using donor funds. I rather strengthen the M&E System that will deliver and ensure that the project/program is evaluative at all times rather than putting resources into conducting EA, and after evaluation.