Aim:

The course aims to provide an overview of the main frameworks, tools and techniques for project evaluation and learning and how they contribute to better project management.

Content:

The course focuses on measurement and the use of data at all stages of implementation: inputs, activities, outputs, effects and impact. Techniques covered during the course include economic analysis, including cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness analysis, breakeven point analysis, the concept of discounting and “time preference”, activity tracking using critical path analysis tools and budget variance analysis; social audit tools, including standard setting, certification on issues such as gender, governance, corporate social responsibility and environment; performance measurement. The use of basic statistics to compare data with targets and to measure the distribution of project outputs and effects (using Lorenz curves and Gini ratios) is presented. The course is highly practical, although no prior statistical knowledge or experience is required.

As well as learning the techniques of project evaluation, the limitations of impact analysis are discussed. Alternative approaches to data collection and institutional arrangements for evaluation are presented. These include regulatory mechanisms, such as the setting of standards and protocols, the use of charters and different forms of "audit". Social survey methodologies including ranking techniques are covered. The role of the participant or user and the use of participatory evaluation techniques will also be covered, although the course is not designed as a PRA course.

The course approach is centred on a project – although the framework and technique are applicable to organisations and programmes.

Methodology:

The course consists of a mix of worked examples and plenary discussions.

Outcomes:

By the end of course, participants will have a framework for evaluation within an overall project or programme. Participants will understand the importance of measurement to both managers and other stakeholders including civil society watchdog organizations, other oversight agencies and project participants. Participants will have been introduced to a wide range of techniques including data collection, analysis and presentation as well as alternative institutional arrangements.

Participants:

The course is designed from the perspective of a general manager with basic mathematical skills. Although many of the exercises are necessarily quantitative, the course is not designed for economic or statistical specialists. However, the course goes beyond the mere presentation of frameworks and institutional arrangements and provides a rudimentary introduction to evaluation techniques and tools. Participants do not require spreadsheet skills for classroom exercises (although access to spreadsheets will be available).