Policy formulation and development projects based on evidence need – drum rolls here – good data. This can be obtained from routine data collection in country-wide surveys and census, from administrative records or from random-sample surveys. The quality of the data is critical in any evaluation effort, and mis-measurement can be a major Achilles’ heel in any statistical … [Read more...] about A top ten list to reduce survey measurement error
Randomizing civil service reform
If anything is clear in the development business, it is that attracting and retaining a qualified and motivated civil service is one of the hardest things to do. And the impact of not having such a work force is stunning if one believes the recent – and very illuminating and controversial – results from the paper by Tessa Bold and others on contract teachers in Kenya. Gabriel … [Read more...] about Randomizing civil service reform
A practical guide to evaluate forest conservation policies
The Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in its latest State of the World Forests estimates that the rate of deforestation remains “alarmingly high.” In some regions such as Latin America or Africa it averaged 0.5% per year over the last decade. Latin America contains over half (57%) of the world’s primary forests. In the last twenty years, … [Read more...] about A practical guide to evaluate forest conservation policies
The M in M&E: Ugly Duckling or Swan?
In well-functioning markets, new ventures either succeed or fail. In contrast, up to 2005, all aid agencies created since 1945 were still in existence (see the book on Aid by Harford and Klein here and here). Given its nature, the aid system exists in an arena that is not subject to the invisible hand of efficient markets. For years the questions asked were, how much aid, and … [Read more...] about The M in M&E: Ugly Duckling or Swan?
Indicators to assess the effectiveness of climate change projects
Determining reasonable indicators for mitigation and adaptation climate change projects is complex. Actions taken now are often designed to have an impact in the uncertain and distant future and may not directly affect climate change, but be taken as a step to prepare for future actions. In addition, there is a spectrum of projects, from the pure climate change-focused … [Read more...] about Indicators to assess the effectiveness of climate change projects