Monitoring, evaluation, and learning (often called MEL) can sound like something that happens after a program is over.
But strong MEL starts before you submit the grant application.
Funders want to understand:
- What will you do?
- Who will benefit?
- What change do you expect to create?
- How will you know whether it happened?
- What will you do with what you learn?
That last question matters.
Evaluation is not only about proving success.
It is also about improving the work.
Related: Dissecting logic models
A useful MEL plan connects activities to outputs, outcomes, and longer-term goals. It identifies what information will be collected, who will collect it, and how the organization will use it.
The plan also needs to be realistic.
If staff lack the time, tools, or training to collect the data, the proposed evaluation may create more burden than value.
Grant professionals can help by making sure the evaluation plan matches the program design and budget.
If the proposal promises to measure changes that require specialized tools, staff, or outside support, include those costs.
The strongest MEL plans are not the most complicated.
They are the ones the organization can actually implement and use to make better decisions.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants