Monitoring and Evaluation

How do we know that the programs and projects we operate are effective? We monitor and evaluate them, but what does that mean? Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is data collection and analysis for the purpose of proving and improving our programs. The "prove" side tends to be for external stakeholders, like donors and grant-makers, to demonstrate that we used their resources efficiently. The "improve" side tends to be for internal stakeholders, like program managers, to help them make changes to their programs to serve their participants more effectively. Overall, M&E is an integral part of doing good work better.