This document discusses the history and evolution of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practices over the past 50 years, from early target setting initiatives to current approaches. It outlines the basic definitions and purposes of M&E, including methodologies like logical frameworks and tools like surveys. The document then analyzes how M&E approaches have developed in tandem with target setting at the global, national and project levels. Finally, it considers the costs of M&E and debates the concept of value for money, concluding with questions around future directions for target setting and M&E methods.

1. 23 March 2011Rachel Norman Research Student Fifty years of M&E from before New Delhi to beyond the MDGs

2. 1. Definitions of Monitoring & Evaluation

3. 2. Interchangeable terminology

4. 3. The M&E Hierarchy – an attempt to demystify For what purpose?; What method and indicators?; When is M&E undertaken?; Who is involved?

5. 4. Purpose (Why) & Methods and Tools (How) How Methodology: Logical Framework Approach; Participatory Rural Appraisal; Minimum Evaluation Procedures; Tools: Surveys; Report Cards; Frameworks Purposes Ethical; Managerial; Decisional; Educative; Levels: global; national; programme; Explain; decision; predict; combination.

6. 5. Theories of change within M&E

7. 6. Fifty years of target setting

8. 7. From targets to M&E – the last 50 years Target setting M&E method & reporting Global IDWSSD; MDGS; Country Global targets; Country targets; Programme Global; National; Project. Global Minimum Evaluation Procedures; Joint Monitoring Programme; Country JMP / UNGLAAS / National data; National monitoring systems; Programme Multiplicity; Complexity.

9. 8. How much is it all costing? Upfront: planning; capacity building and training; Implementation: data collection; analysis; verification; Reporting and dissemination. Time; logistics; Direct and in-direct stakeholders.

10. 9. Is this Value for Money (VFM)? What is VFM as a paradigm? 3Es: efficiency; effectiveness; economical ?equity What is VFM to you and me or someone else? Quality & durability; Sustainability & durability; Utilisation; Satisfaction & Happiness Community ownership.

11. 10. From targets to M&E – the future? Target setting M&E methods & reporting Core set of targets? Revisit the MEP as a method and tool? Water Aid approach – 3/5/10 years