Mentoring in evaluation & communication: A Trojan horse for adaptive management

Context and MEL challenge Designing Evaluation and Communication for Impact (DECI) is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC, Ottawa). Our partners are researchers in the global South committed to bridging research to policy in dynamic topics. Their applied research efforts are complex and evolving, and require a developmental MEL support. Since 2009 DECI […]

Creating the Conditions for Transformative MEL – the 3Ps

There is growing consensus that meaningful Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) must be intentional, resourced, fit-for-purpose, and focused on utilization. When we talk about MEL that responds to complexity and uncertainty, the conversation often jumps straight to conceptual and methodological innovations. However, what can truly unlock the potential for complexity-aware and systems-informed MEL to support […]

Navigating the Public Resources Governance System: A reflection on Strengthening System MEL

Navigating Public Resources Governance Systems:  Public resources and services are necessary for equitable and sustainable development around the world.  However, the governance systems that shape how resources are raised and used are often stuck in a vicious cycle of ineffectiveness and exclusion due to power asymmetries, prevailing ideas and norms, and the complexities of reforms […]

Expanding the Evaluator’s Toolbox: From Determining to Developing Value in Systems Change

As systems change evaluators,  we’ve had firsthand experience supporting philanthropy and foundation strategies and portfolio programs aimed at addressing wicked problems — from safe, affordable housing to better health outcomes for vulnerable groups. We’ve learned that more traditional evaluation approaches often fall short when tackling the dynamic and emergent nature of complex systems change. In […]