Monitoring and evaluation: concept and definition, monitoring and evaluation of extension programmes
Monitoring and Evaluation are the two management tools that help in keeping a control
on the business activities as well as raising the level of performance. Monitoring refers to
an organized process of overseeing and checking the activities undertaken in a project, to
ascertain whether it is capable of achieving the planned results or not. Conversely,
evaluation is a scientific process that gauges the success of the project or program in
meeting the objectives.
Definition of Monitoring:
Monitoring is the systematic process of observing and recording on a regular basis, the
activities carried out in a project, to ensure that the activities are in line with the objectives
of the enterprise.
Monitoring takes into account optimum utilization of resources, to assist the managers in
rational decision making. It keeps a track on the progress and checks the quality of the
project or program against set criteria and checks adherence to established standards.
The information collected in monitoring process helps analyse each aspect of the project, to gauge the efficiency and adjust inputs wherever essential. It keeps track of project inputs and outputs such as:
• Activities;
• Reporting and documentation;
• Finances and budgets;
• Supplies and equipment.
Definition of Evaluation
Evaluation is defined as an objective and rigorous analysis of a continuing or completed
project, to determine its significance, effectiveness, impact and sustainability by comparing the result with the set of standards. It is the process of passing value judgment concerning the performance level or attainment of defined objectives.
In short, evaluation is a process that critically assesses tests and measures the design,
implementation and results of the project or program, in the light of objectives. It can be
conducted both qualitatively and quantitatively, to determine the difference between actual
and desired outcome.
Difference between Monitoring and Evaluation
