Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my organization need m&E?

By analyzing and demonstrating your results using M&E strategies, you can prove to your stakeholders that your intervention is worthy of investment. Equally important, the data that you find through M&E can teach you what’s working, and where you can improve to create the greatest possible impact. Many organizations do the minimum M&E necessary to satisfy donors, but at Understanding Impact, I prioritize learning and maximizing impact in addition to communicating results to stakeholders.

What’s “monitoring” and what’s “evaluation”?

“M&E” has become such a buzzword that we don’t often stop to think about what the terms actually mean - and at this point, many people are afraid to ask. Monitoring is the process of gathering and analyzing data throughout the life of a program: monitoring how the program is progressing. Evaluation is the process of answering the question, “Did the program work?” Evaluation looks at the results of the program for its beneficiaries and stakeholders.

What about “Accountability”, “research” and “learning”?

Many organizations add one or more of these terms into the title of their M&E department (e.g. MEAL, MERL, or MEL). These terms simply add detail to the department’s mission. For example, an organization that is focused on reporting accurate results to stakeholders might include “accountable” in its M&E title. An organization that utilizes advanced research methods might add the term “research”. Understanding Impact can help you define what M&E means to your organization, and which terminology is most appropriate.

How much do m&e services cost?

It depends what kind of services you need. I charge a daily rate for consulting work, and will work with you to minimize costs. For example, I will seek to do work remotely where possible to avoid high travel costs, and can advise you on the most affordable softwares and other tools. Capacity building and strategy & systems services can cost as low as the consulting fee and any necessary travel and software; evaluations are generally more costly, but I am here to help you minimize costs and even to co-fundraise as needed. I price on a sliding scale based on your budget, and offer discounts for organizations that are women- and/or locally-led. Learn more about my services.