Methods for monitoring and evaluation

This annex to the International Fund for Agricultural Development's (IFAD) A Guide for Project M&E (PDF), summarises 34 useful methods for specific M&E tasks.

Excerpt

"For ease of use, the methods have been grouped in seven categories:

1. Sampling-related methods
2. Core M&E methods
3. Discussion methods (for groups)
4. Methods for spatially-distributed information
5. Methods for time-based patterns of change
6. Methods for analysing linkages and relationships
7. Methods for ranking and prioritising

Each method is briefly explained in terms of purpose, steps and application tips. As these methods are only brief descriptions from longer texts, please refer to the original texts for additional information (see Further Reading). Note that each method can be adapted and mixed with other methods to suit your needs." (Guijt, & Woodhill 2002)

Contents

• Random Sampling  p.4
• Non-Random Sampling  p.5
• Stakeholder Analysis  p.6
• Documentation Review  p.8
• Biophysical Measurements  p.8
• Direct Observation  p.9
• Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA)  p.10
• Questionnaires and Surveys  p.12
• Semi-Structured Interviews  p.14
• Case Studies  p.15
• Brainstorming  p.17
• Focus Group  p.18
• Nominal Group Technique (Simple Ranking)  p.19
• Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT)  p.20
• Dreams Realised or Visioning  p.21
• Drama and Role Plays p.22
• (Sketch) Mapping p.23
• Transects  p.26
• GIS Mapping  p.27
• Photographs and Video  p.28
• Diaries  p.29
• Historical Trends and Timelines  p.30
• Seasonal Calendars  p.31
• Most Significant Change  p.32
• Rich Pictures (or Mind Maps)  p.34
• Impact Flow Diagram (or Cause-Effect Diagram)  p.34
• Institutional Linkage Diagram (or Venn/Chapati Diagram)  p.36
• Problem and Objectives Trees  p.37
• M&E Wheel (or "Spider Web")   p.40
• Systems (or Inputs-Outputs) Diagram  p.41
• Social Mapping or Well-Being Ranking  p.42
• Matrix Scoring  p.44
• Relative Scales or Ladders  p.47
• Ranking and Pocket Charts  p.49