Strong evaluation is crucial in order to ensure that projects, initiatives and interventions remain efficient and are achieving impact. We have put together a Framework for Evaluating Impact which is designed to provide a useful overview for anyone undertaking such work to encourage thinking around how evaluation will be carried out prior to committing resource (typically time and effort). The Framework also includes useful information about the key considerations that might be taken into account when evaluating for impact at interim and end stages of work.
At its best, building in evaluation from the start will make tracking progress and recognising impact both much easier and more powerful. It is therefore considered best practice to include plans on how evaluation is to be incorporated when preparing project proposals and briefs. The framework provides structure on how this might best be realised.