Improving monitoring and evaluation of development projects : an information technology approach based on logical framework analysis : a case study of the Sigatoka Valley Rural Development Project, Fiji

Abstract

Attempts to eradicate poverty and provide food for the great masses of people who live in the developing world have given rise to several development activities, funded through use of local resources by the developing countries themselves, or through bilateral, multilateral and other non-governmental aid. Unfortunately, these development efforts have rarely achieved their objectives.

There have been weaknesses in implementing the projects due, in part, to a technical problem a lack of flexible planning techniques to facilitate the establishment of an efficient monitoring and evaluation system, capable of generating implementation variance reports required to effectively track progress of implementation processes and to identify implementation pitfalls for early corrective action. There is also a human factor – inadequate responsiveness on the part of implementers to identify immediate alternative solutions to implementation problems.

This research suggests appropriate computerised techniques for use in development projects to address the technical problem identified above, using the project LFA as basis for identifying the required data, and information to establish an effective monitoring and evaluation system. A Project Management and Data Base Management Software were explored and related to implementation problems of the Sigatoka Valley Rural Development Project in Fiji, which was used as a case study.

The applicability of the Project Management Software was investigated as a possible technique for improving effectiveness of physical implementation processes. Its use as an effective flexible planning technique, which enhances efficiency in resource allocations and utilisation, was examined. Also, the use of the technique in facilitating the establishment of an efficient, instant and periodic monitoring system, capable of assisting in identification of variances in implementation plans that might not otherwise come to light until they are implemented, was assessed. It is anticipated that skilful use of the technique for planning and management would reduce inefficiencies and ineffectiveness in implementing development activities.

Global concern for establishing techniques for assessment of effects of development efforts and their impacts on the intended beneficiaries has been expressed by the United Nations. This study also considered choice of computerised Data Base Management techniques as an ongoing objective and systematic, analytic and informative approach to evaluation of efficiency and effectiveness of development plans (strategic and tactical) and their effects and impacts on the intended beneficiaries.

These two techniques are likely to provide ongoing, timely, well analysed, purposeful, concise and standardised monitoring and evaluation reports for immediate action by project management. The information and data generated from these techniques may also be used for preparation and modification of new and existing development activities, thereby enhancing the process of learning about the dynamics of rural development for the improvement of welfare in poor countries.