Preparing Evaluation Reports printable pdf download

NUMBER 1

VERSION 1.0

NOV 2012

HOW-TO NOTE

Preparing Evaluation Reports

Monitoring and Evaluation Series

INTRODUCTION

Create

This Note supplements USAID Automated Directives System (ADS)

evaluation

Chapter 203 and provides current good practice in preparing evaluation

reports that

reports, the main deliverable for most evaluations. Following these

practices will help to establish clear expectations for evaluation reports

are clear,

during the preparation of evaluation statements of work and the in-briefing

credible, and

of the evaluation team. These practices also serve as a guide for reviewing

the quality of draft evaluation reports submitted by the evaluation team.

useful.

This Note is also a resource for USAID partners and independent

evaluators of USAID programs and projects. An

evaluation report template

and

sample evaluation report covers

are available as additional resources.

BACKGROUND

The most important outcome of an evaluation is that it is used to inform

decisions and improve USAID projects and programs. A key factor in using

evaluation findings is having a well-written, succinct report that clearly and

quickly communicates credible findings and conclusions, including easy-to-

understand graphics and consistent formatting.

How-To Notes

REQUIREMENTS

are published by the

USAID’s Evaluation Policy and ADS 203 provide guidance on evaluation

Bureau of Policy,

report structure and content, and steps in the process of creating a report.

Planning and Learning

These are listed in Table 1. The report must present a well-researched,

and provide guidelines

thoughtful and organized effort to objectively evaluate a USAID activity,

and practical advice to

project or program. Findings, conclusions and recommendations must be

USAID staff and

based in evidence derived from the best methods available given the

partners related to the

evaluation questions and resources available. The evaluation methods,

Program Cycle. This

limitations, and information sources must be documented, including by

How-To Note

providing data collection tools and the original evaluation statement of work

supplements USAID

as annexes to the main report. Finally, the findings should be shared

ADS Chapter 203

transparently and widely, to ensure accountability and to promote learning

from USAID’s experience.

Preparing Evaluation Reports

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