1. Why do we need to evaluate?

This page has been developed by M. Peyre, CIRAD-AGIRs

There could be many perceptions about the primary purpose of evaluation:

To plan , to re-design
To ensure reaching the objectives
To takethe right corrective actions
To make changes
To demonstrate quality of the data generated
To ensure effectiveness of the actions
To advocate for funds
To ensure trust

Hereis a non exaustive list, evaluationcancontribute to to informed decision making and more enlightened change by ensuring better programs, systems, results; can help in precipitating needed change to take corrective actions; to demonstrate data quality and ensuring access to international trade market for example; to ensure that the action taken will be effective; to advocate for funds.

A very important aspect is that evaluation will contribute to ensure trust and empowering all stakeholders not only by the demonstration of one or many of the elements already mentioned but also by engaging them in the evaluation process;
Evaluators should aim to construct and provide the best possible information to provide objective, independent and transparent information on the value of whatever is being evaluated.