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Practicing what we preach — our experience rethinking M&E in complex settings
Resource type
Authors/contributors
- Bina, Andrea (Author)
- Vester, Søren (Author)
Title
Practicing what we preach — our experience rethinking M&E in complex settings
Abstract
The UNDP has been exploring new approaches to M&E to better understand and address complex systems challenges. Traditional linear project-based planning and evaluation methods are insufficient for dealing with the unpredictable nature of such systems. The UNDP’s new Strategic Plan calls for a shift in M&E practices to align with the complexity of today’s global challenges.
Key points from the blog post include:
Learning and Adapting: There’s a need for continuous learning and adaptation in M&E practices to effectively address complex problems like transitioning to a circular economy.
Longer Time Horizons: Substantive change takes time, and it’s often unclear what the results will look like, making it difficult to track progress.
Aggregate Impact: Evaluating interconnected interventions as a portfolio is crucial because they cannot be assessed in isolation.
Contribution vs. Attribution: Focusing on the contribution to broader change processes is more important than attributing specific outcomes to individual actions.
The UNDP has initiated the M&E Sandbox to experiment with and learn from innovative M&E practices. This collaborative space has attracted participants from over 180 organizations, highlighting a shared interest in evolving M&E to better understand change in contexts of uncertainty. A partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has also been formed to focus on M&E in food systems.
The blog post emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty, experimenting, and collaborating to contribute to positive change in complex settings1.
Blog Title
UNDP Strategic Innovation
Website Type
Medium
Date
29/11/2023, 16:52
Accessed
02/05/2024, 10:28
Language
en
Citation
Bina, A., & Vester, S. (2023, November 29). Practicing what we preach — our experience rethinking M&E in complex settings [Medium]. UNDP Strategic Innovation. https://medium.com/@undp.innovation/practicing-what-we-preach-our-experience-rethinking-m-e-in-complex-settings-7cb66cc46220
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