UNITAR Online Catalogue
CIFAL Lebanon - Strengthening Project Impact through Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL)
Personas
CIFAL Lebanon, Global CEO Alliance
Antecedentes
CIFAL Lebanon is pleased to present a workshop on “Strengthening Project Impact through Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL).” The session contributes to a broader exploration of effective tools and approaches that support sustainable development and measurable impact in humanitarian and development programming.
Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) are central components of results-driven project management. A well-integrated MEAL system enables organizations to assess performance, ensure transparency to stakeholders, and foster adaptive learning throughout the project cycle. As donor expectations for evidence-based results continue to grow, the ability to design, implement, and refine MEAL processes is more important than ever.
Through this session, participants will gain a foundational understanding of MEAL systems, from planning and data collection to analysis and adaptive learning. The workshop draws upon field-tested models, global standards, and practical frameworks to equip participants with essential insights for improving project effectiveness and accountability.
Objetivos del evento
- Introduce participants to the core concepts and components of MEAL systems in the context of development and humanitarian programming
- Highlight the role of MEAL in strengthening project impact, accountability, and adaptive management
- Familiarize attendees with practical tools and frameworks used in monitoring, evaluation, and learning processes
- Promote the integration of MEAL activities into all phases of the project cycle, including planning, budgeting, implementation, and reporting
- Encourage a culture of continuous learning and data-informed decision-making within organizations
- Support capacity building for MEAL practitioners, project staff, and organizations seeking to enhance program quality and transparency
Objetivos del aprendizaje
- Define the key functions of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) and distinguish between them
- Explain how MEAL contributes to improved project planning, implementation, and results measurement
- Identify the main phases and components of a MEAL system, including logic models, logframes, and performance tracking tools
- Recognize the importance of cross-cutting themes, ethical standards, and accountability mechanisms in MEAL processes
- Understand how MEAL data is collected, analyzed, and used to support adaptive management and stakeholder reporting
- Apply basic MEAL planning concepts, including aligning MEAL activities with project calendars, budgets, and staffing structures
Contenido y estructura
Day 1
Topic 1.1: Introduction to MEAL
- Understanding MEAL and Its Purpose
- Differentiating Monitoring and Evaluation
- Practicing Accountability and Learning in Projects
Topic 1.2: Understanding the MEAL Phase Model
- Overview of the MEAL Process Model
Topic 1.3: Key Themes and Ethical Standards in MEAL
- Key Themes and Ethical Practices in MEAL
Topic 1.4: Integrating MEAL into Project Design
- Connecting MEAL to Project Goals and Deliverables
- Integrating MEAL into Timelines, Budgets, and Staffing
Day 2
Topic 2.1: Foundations of Logic Models What is a Logic Model?
- MEAL Teams
Topic 2.2: Theory of Change (ToC)
- Definition and What Makes a Good ToC?
- Identifying Assumptions and Killer Assumptions
Topic 2.3: Results Framework (RF)
- Organizing Change Using If–Then Logic
- Defining Goals, Strategic Objectives, Intermediate Results, and Outputs
- Translating the ToC into an RF Hierarchy
- Using RFs for Communication and Planning
Topic 2.4: The Logical Framework (Logframe)
- Components of a Logframe Matrix
- Vertical and Horizontal Logic: Objectives, Indicators, Assumptions, and Methods
- Aligning the Logframe with Monitoring and Evaluation Needs
Topic 2.5: Indicators and Measurement Methods
- Identifying SMART Indicators
- Choosing Standard vs. Custom Indicators
- Direct vs. Proxy Indicators and Quantitative vs. Qualitative Indicators
- Methodology Advice
Day 3
Topic 3.1: Embedding MEAL in Project Management
- Integrating MEAL into Project Calendars and Budgets
- Planning for Adaptability and Responsiveness
Topic 3.2: Core Planning Tools and Documentation
- Overview of Key MEAL Planning Tools
- Aligning MEAL Activities with Project Goals and Logic Models
- Using Planning to Bridge Design and Delivery
Topic 3.3: Performance Management Planning
- Developing a MEAL Performance Management Plan (PMP)
- Linking Indicators to Objectives and Data Collection Methods
- Assigning Frequency, Responsibility, and Resources
Topic 3.4: Feedback and Learning Systems
- Designing Effective Feedback and Response Mechanisms
- Building a Learning Plan that Fosters Critical Reflection
Topic 3.5: Planning for Evaluation
- Drafting Terms of Reference for Evaluations
- Creating a Summary Evaluation Table
- Clarifying When, Why, and How to Evaluate
Metodología
This workshop will follow a guided presentation and discussion-based format designed to foster practical understanding and applied learning around Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) systems. The session will begin with an introduction to MEAL and its relevance to project effectiveness, followed by a structured presentation covering core concepts, planning tools, and implementation strategies across the MEAL cycle.
Participants will be introduced to real-world applications of MEAL frameworks, including logic models, performance tracking tools, and adaptive learning approaches.
The session will be divided into thematic segments aligned with key components of MEAL, such as accountability mechanisms, data collection methods, and evaluation planning.
An interactive Q&A session will follow the presentation, providing attendees the opportunity to engage directly with the speaker, seek clarification, and explore context-specific challenges. This approach aims to equip participants with actionable insights, reinforce critical thinking, and promote dialogue on strengthening impact and accountability in development and humanitarian programming.
Público objetivo
- MEAL Officers and Program Staff
- Development and Humanitarian Professionals
- Decision-Makers and Strategy Leads
- Independent Consultants and Academic Researchers
- Early to Mid-Career M&E Practitioners
- Local NGOs, INGOs, and Implementing Partners
- Global and Regional Development Stakeholders