Tasks: C4D R,M&E through the Rainbow Framework

The Rainbow Framework structures the main, practical 'tasks' involved in doing research, monitoring and evaluation (R,M&E) into seven themes or 'clusters'. 

The C4D Resource Hub uses the Rainbow Framework structure to give practical recommendations on tools, methods and resources that are in keeping with the seven principles for C4D R,M&E (as adapted in the Evaluating C4D project), with links to C4D specific examples where possible.

Remember, these are not steps. Most people will explore the tasks based on need and interest, rather than follow the clusters one after the other. For example, 'manage' tasks are undertaken at different points in the R,M&E process.   

In this section

  • C4D: Manage

    Managing R,M&E involves agreeing on how decisions will be made and ensuring decisions are implemented well. Decisions and choices may need to be revisited and revised throughout implementation.

  • C4D: Define

    The Define tasks involves developing a description of the program and how it is understood to work.

  • C4D: Frame

    Framing R,M&E involves being clear about the boundaries of the R,M&E. Why is the R,M&E being done? What are the broad R,M&E questions it is trying to answer? What are the values that will be used to make judgments about whether it is good or bad, better or worse than alternatives, or getting better or worse?

  • C4D: Describe

    The describe cluster of evaluation tasks involves collecting or retrieving data and analyzing it to answer R,M&E questions about situations and what has happened (the activities, outcomes and impacts) and other important contextual information

  • C4D: Understand causes and contributions

    Most evaluations need to investigate what is causing any changes observed. This involves selecting methods for investigating causal attribution and contribution.

  • C4D: Synthesise

    These tasks involve bringing together data and evidence into an overall conclusion and judgement.

  • C4D: Report and support use

    These tasks involve creating reports and content from the R,M&E, sharing findings, and supporting use of and learning from the R,M&E with the primary users.

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