Evaluation is often seen as an "end of project cycle" exercise. Evaluation, however, plays a distinct role at all stages of the project cycle.

Monitoring and evaluation activities are integral parts of the project cycle management and a pre-requisite for successful results-based management (RBM) as they are measurement tools.

Strategy Setting and Programme Development

Findings of evaluation reports is a precious input into the decision-making and planning processes. Evaluation enables continuous improvement and learning through implementation of recommendations, understanding and incorporation of lessons learned from past evaluations into new strategies, programmes and projects.

Programmes and projects are planned and implemented following a sequence that begins with the identification of ideas in consultation with stakeholders. Project Manager and relevant Offices and Units then formulate the project/programme document. The project document is then reviewed against specific quality criteria for approval either by the Programme Review Committee (PRC) or by the Field Representative (Direct Approval process). The role of the approval process is to ensure quality, appropriateness, coherence and feasibility of UNODC operational activities, in conformity with UNODC mandate, policies, procedural requirements, rules and regulations as well as with geographic and thematic strategies. Once approved, projects/programmes are implemented, monitored and evaluated.

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Resource Mobilization

Evaluation reports, through evidence based findings and thorough analysis, allow UNODC to show Donors and Member States the work that has been achieved, the positive outcomes of UNODC's engagement as well as the gaps that remain to be filled.

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During the Implementation

Mid-term evaluations also provide important findings and recommendations which point out the positive and the negative aspects of the work being conducted. By undertaking an evaluation and by following its recommendations, an Organization can ensure success and prevent easily avoidable mistakes from happening. This allows UNODC to reach its goals and achieve planned outcomes as set in its strategies.

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