Monitoring and evaluation basics: showing results donors trust

Monitoring and evaluation, often shortened to M&E, is how an organisation learns whether its work is making a difference. Done simply, it is also the best way to win and keep funding.

Start with the change you want

Describe the change in plain words: who should be better off, how, and by when. Everything else in M&E measures progress towards this.

Choose indicators

Pick a small number of indicators that show progress, such as the number of people trained or the share who report higher income. Fewer, better indicators beat a long list.

Set a baseline

Measure where you start. Without a baseline, you cannot show how much has changed.

Collect data consistently

Use simple tools, train the people who collect data and store it safely. Check quality regularly.

Learn and report honestly

Review results with your team and the community, adjust the work and share both successes and difficulties. Honest reporting builds donor trust.

Where to go next

Explore the 25 online courses at the NGO Leadership Academy and learn at your own pace.