Overview of Evaluation

In order to assess the effectiveness and relevance of cooperation, it is important to implement projects that meet the needs of local communities in developing countries. It is also important to evaluate what has been achieved by the projects, and then reflect the lessons and recommendations on improvements in the implementation of new projects.

We evaluate projects at the ante, mid-term, terminal, and post stages to assess the relevance of a project and cooperation effectiveness as objectively as possible. The results are utilized for planning and improving projects and securing accountability, striving to implement more effective and efficient cooperation with the support and understanding of our donors

Our evaluation can be categorized based on several perspectives. The classification according to evaluation focuses (what to evaluate) and stage within the project cycle (when to evaluate) is as follows:

o    Evaluation Focus

o    Evaluation within Operating Cycle

§   Ante evaluation

§   Mid-term evaluation

§   Terminal evaluation

    §   Post evaluation.

The ante evaluation is carried out prior to the implementation of a project to examine its consistency and necessity with our community programs. Also it is conducted to clarify the contents and expected outcomes and examines the appropriateness of the project implementation comprehensively. Evaluation indicators of a project made at the ante stage will be used to measure the effects of cooperation from mid-term to post evaluations.

The mid-term evaluation is conducted during implementation of a project for understanding achievement of the project and the implementation process. It is conducted for evaluating the project from perspectives such as relevance and efficiency, which involves reviewing the original plan and strengthening project management if necessary.

The terminal evaluation comprehensively analyzes a project from perspectives such as the achievement levels of the purposes, efficiency, and prospective sustainability of the project. Based on the result, it is generally decided whether to complete the project or do necessary follow-up such as extending the project period.

The post evaluation is conducted a few years after completion of the project to verify impact and sustainability primarily as well as to obtain lessons and recommendations that will help improve our community programs and plan and implement effective and efficient projects in the future.