Project Impact Monitoring: A Misnomer

Abstract

The overall record of monitoring and evaluation activities relating to agricultural and rural development projects has been unimpressive. In taking stock of the situation, particular attention must focus on the relevance and place of impact assessment activities. It is suggested that disqualification of the notion, as well as future references to, terms such as impact monitoring, would be beneficial. Whilst certain analytical studies concurrent with project imple‐mentation would be necessary, these should not be tantamount to impact evaluation, which has its own time and place. Towards greater clarity on this aspect, a redefinition of the current evaluation terminology is called for. Finally, a number of neglected areas essential for improving monitoring's role in project management are reviewed.