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Results-Based Management: A how to guide

Call for proposal: Indo-Pacific Regional Connectivity Envelope

Table of contents

  1. An Introduction to Results-Based Management
  2. Results-Based Management tools and methodologies
  3. Regional Connectivity Envelope (RCE) RBM examples
  4. Annexes

1. An Introduction to Results-Based Management

1.1 Results-Based Management / Managing for Results

1.1.1. What is Results-Based Management?

The aim of Results-Based Management (RBM) / Managing for Results (MfR) is to optimize and improve the achievement of results.

Managing for Results (MfR), or Results-based Management (RBM), is a lifecycle approach to adaptive management that focuses on achieving results (outcomes): from initiation, to design and planning, to implementation (results-based monitoring including performance measurement, adapting/adjusting and reporting), to closure (final evaluations and reports, and integrating lessons learned into future programming). It is a way of working and thinking strategically – a mindset – to manage programs/portfolios, projects and other activities more effectively and efficiently to achieve expected outcomes.

According to the ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ :

RBM is a life-cycle approach to adaptive management that integrates strategy, people, resources, processes, and measurements to improve decision-making, transparency, and accountability. The approach focuses on achieving outcomes, by implementing performance measurement, learning, and adapting, as well as reporting performance. RBM means:

In other words, Results-Based Management is not just a set of tools or instructions. It is a way of thinking strategically about projects and other initiatives that help you manage more effectively. By managing better, you can improve the achievement of results, that is, the positive changes you set out to achieve or contribute to with your programs/portfolios or projects.

1.1.2. Why use the Results-Based Management approach?

Historically, government departments—and implementing organizations—focused their attention on inputs (what they spent), activities (what they did) and outputs (what they produced). While information about inputs, activities and outputs is important, it did not tell implementers whether or not they were making progress in addressing the issues they had identified. Losing sight of the results their programs were aiming to achieve limited the effectiveness of their programming.

A new management approach was needed to raise the standards of performance and define success in terms of actual results achieved. Results-Based Management/Managing for Results was introduced to meet this need.

The focus on activities at the expense of results is what management scholar Peter Drucker, in 1954, referred to as the “activity trap”. Instead, Results-Based Management requires that you look beyond activities and outputs to focus on actual results (outcomes): the changes to which your programming is contributing and/or contributed. By establishing clearly defined realistic expected outcomes, assessing risk, collecting information to assess progress on the outcomes on a regular basis during implementation, and adapting/making timely adjustments, practitioners can manage their projects and programs/portfolios better in order to optimize and improve the achievement of results.

This focus on measuring at the outcome level during implementation was one of the fundamental changes introduced by Results-Based Management / Managing for Results. While traditional approaches to management may have identified objectives or expected outcomes during planning, once implementation began monitoring focused on inputs, activities and outputs. With the advent of Results-Based Management, the focus remains on outcomes, not only during design and planning, but also during implementation.

Box 1 - Progress on vs. progress toward

When reporting on outcomes, you can speak about progress “on” or “toward” the achievement of that outcome. This difference allows you to report on progress “toward” an outcome early in the life of the project even when there has not been a significant change in the value of the indicators for that outcome.

In sum, Results-Based Management is about effectiveness; it aims to maximize the achievement of ultimate outcomes, in other words the improvements to cultural ties between Canada and the Indo-Pacific. The nature of ultimate outcomes may vary depending on the type of programming. For example, in the case of the Regional Connectivity Envelope the ultimate outcomes must contribute to developments related to security, trade, people to people ties, climate, and Canadian engagement in the region.

The following example of a student’s journey through the education system provides a simple illustration of how Results-Based Management concepts are being applied in everyday lives all over the world, and why this approach is useful.

Box 2 - Simple illustration of Results-Based Management concepts

Imagine yourself as a student. Your school will have established a curriculum that outlines expected learning outcomes and targets (specific knowledge and skills, and their application) that you are required to attain by the end of the year in order to move to the next level. The curriculum is based on analysis of education research, evidence and best practices, and establishes learning outcomes and targets that are realistic and achievable for your grade or level. The school has put in place systems that enable you to monitor your performance in order to ensure that you are on track to achieve your end-of-year targets for the expected learning outcomes.

During the year, you monitor your progress through quantitative indicators (for example, scores, marks, rank) and qualitative indicators (for example, your level of confidence with the subject, and your engagement in the course). Data on these indicators is collected through various collection methods (for example, tests, essays, observation). These data are assessed and you are provided with regular feedback and reports on your performance throughout the year. If your progress falls behind during the year, the information provided by this regular monitoring of outcomes gives you the evidence needed for you to take corrective action for example, hire a tutor. If you have to hire a tutor, this means an adjustment to the activities you planned to do outside the school and may mean an adjustment in your budget.

In order to be useful and enable you to manage your education and take corrective action, the information you get via regular feedback and reports focuses on your progress toward an actual change in your skills, abilities or performance, rather than on what was done or taught in class. A report that stated you attended math classes or that the school provided you with English and Science classes would not give you useful information. A report that provided an assessment of your progress toward the end-of-year learning outcomes, based on an analysis of the actual data from indicators (your marks, scores, etc.), on the other hand, provides you much more useful information for making decisions about your education, and thus helps you to manage your education better.

1.2 Results-Based Management and the Theory of Change

The theory of change is a fundamental part of managing for results. The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat describes it as follows:

Every program [and project] is based on a "theory of change" – a set of assumptions, risks and external factors that describes how and why the program [or project] is intended to work. This theory connects the program's [or project’s] activities with its [expected ultimate outcome]. It is inherent in the program [or project] design and is often based on knowledge and experience of the program [or project design team], research, evaluations, best practices and lessons learned.

Theory of change reinvigorates the analytic roots of Results-Based Management, emphasizing the need to understand the conditions that influence the project and the motivations and contributions of various actors. When Results-Based Management is properly applied, project design is based on a thorough analysis of the issue and the context in which it exists, which informs an evidence-based solution to the issue: the theory of change.

A theory of change explains how an initiative is expected to produce its results. The theory typically starts out with a sequence of events and results (outputs, immediate outcomes, intermediate outcomes and ultimate outcomes) that are expected to occur owing to the initiative. This is commonly referred to as the “program logic” or “logic model.” However, the theory of change goes further by outlining the mechanisms of change, as well as the assumptions, risks and context that support or hinder the theory from being manifested as observed outcomes.

A programs/portfolios and project’s theory of change will be revisited regularly during implementation, as the program/portfolio and project and the context in which they are being delivered evolve. This is in keeping with the Results-Based Management principle of continuous adjustment: monitoring progress, comparing expected outcomes to actual outcomes, learning and adapting/making adjustments as required.

The importance of assumptions

Assumptions are the conscious and unconscious beliefs we each have about how the world works. From the perspective of the design team, assumptions constitute beliefs (validated or otherwise) about existing conditions that may affect the achievement of outcomes and about why each level will lead to the next. In the context of the theory of change and logic model, assumptions are the necessary conditions that must exist if the relationships in the theory of change are to behave as expected. Accordingly, care should be taken to make explicit the important assumptions upon which the internal logic of the theory of change is based.

Assumptions can be difficult to identify, as they are often taken for granted or are linked to deeply held convictions. Participatory exercises with a wide variety of local and non-local stakeholders are a good way of uncovering assumptions. This is because assumptions tend to vary among stakeholders and will become apparent when there are differing views on whether or not a project will lead to the desired change.

The importance of identifying risks

¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ defines risk as the effect of uncertainty on expected results (outcomes). Developing a theory of change will also help identify any risks that would affect the achievement of outcomes.

Note: Once risks are identified, suitable response strategies should be developed and managed throughout the life of the project.

1.3 The results chain

Developing a theory of change combines a reflective process and analysis with the systematic mapping of the logical sequence from inputs to outcomes in a project. The results chain provides the conceptual framework for articulating this logical sequence. ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ defines a results chain as follows (see Box 3 below).

Box 3 - Definition: Results chain

Results chain is a visual depiction of the logical relationships that illustrate the links between inputs, activities, outputs, and the outcomes of a given policy, program or project.

The results chain addresses practitioners’ need for a concept that allows them to break complex change down into manageable building blocks or steps that lead to one another, making it easier to sequence and identify changes during both analysis and planning. These steps also become the points at which practitioners will measure whether or not the expected change is actually occurring throughout project implementation.

In sum, when practitioners approach a specific problem, their respective results chain will provide a structure to their project design, telling them what types of building blocks they should be identifying as they work on their theory of change.

Figure 1 - ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ Results Chain

Text version

Levels for ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ Results Chain

  • Inputs
  • Activities
  • Outputs
  • Immediate outcomes (Development Result)
    • (short-term)
  • Intermediate outcomes(Development Result)
    • (medium-term)
  • Ultimate outcome (Development Result)
    • (long-term)

¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ’s results chain

¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ’s results chain is divided into six levels. Each of these represents a distinct step in the logic of a project. The top three levels—ultimate, intermediate and immediate outcomes—constitute the actual changes expected to take place. The bottom three levels—inputs, activities and outputs—address the means to arrive at these changes.

Within the results chain, each level of outcomes is very distinct, with clear definitions of the type of change that is expected at that level. These definitions, along with the definitions for inputs, activities and outputs, are defined below. For more information, please refer to

Ultimate outcome – Change in state, condition or well-being of beneficiaries

Box 4 - Definition: Ultimate outcome

Ultimate outcome is the highest-level change to which an organization, policy, program, or project contributes through the achievement of one or more intermediate outcomes. The ultimate outcome usually represents the raison d'être of an organization, policy, program, or project, and it takes the form of a sustainable change of state among beneficiaries (rights holders).

The ultimate outcome represents the “why” of a project and should describe the changes in state, condition or well-being that a project’s ultimate beneficiaries should experience. These should not be confused with changes in surrounding circumstances, such as increased economic growth […]. An ultimate outcome should instead reflect changes in the lives of women, men, girls and boys in the partner country.

In this initiative the ultimate outcome is:

Enhanced realization of joint Canadian and Indo-Pacific stakeholder interests in key developments related to security, trade, people to people ties, climate, and Canadian engagement in the Indo-Pacific Region.

An ultimate outcome usually occurs after the end of the project, but should, when feasible, still be measured during the life of the project as changes may occur earlier. Once the project is over, the achievement of the ultimate outcome can be assessed through an ex-post evaluation.

Box 5 - Definition: Ex-post evaluation

“Evaluation of a … [initiative] after it has been completed. Note: It may be undertaken directly after or long after completion. The intention is to identify the factors of success or failure, to assess the sustainability of results and impacts. As well as to draw conclusions that may inform other [initiative]”.

Intermediate outcomes – Change in behaviour, practice or performance

Box 6 - Definition: Intermediate outcome

Intermediate outcome is a change that is expected to logically occur once one or more immediate outcomes have been achieved. In terms of time frame and level, these are medium-term outcomes that are usually achieved by the end of a project/program, and are usually changes in behaviour, practice or performance among intermediaries and/or beneficiaries.

Intermediate outcomes articulate the changes in behaviour, practice or performance that intermediaries and/or beneficiaries should experience by the end of a project. Intermediate outcomes usually stem from the application of the capacity built among intermediaries or beneficiaries at the immediate outcome level.

In this initiative the intermediate outcomes are:

Immediate outcomes – Change in capacities

Box 7 - Definition: Immediate outcome

Immediate outcome is a change that is expected to occur once one or more outputs have been provided or delivered by the implementer. In terms of time frame and level, these are short-term outcomes, and are usually changes in capacity, such as an increase in knowledge, awareness, skills or abilities, or access* to... among intermediaries and/or beneficiaries.

* Changes in access can fall at either the immediate or the intermediate outcome level, depending on the context of the project and its theory of change.

Immediate outcomes articulate the changes in capacity that intermediaries and/or beneficiaries should experience during the life of a project.

Immediate outcomes represent the first level of change that intermediaries or beneficiaries experience once implementers start delivering the outputs of a project.

In this initiative the immediate outcomes are:

Outputs – Products and services

Box 8 - Definition: Output

Output is the direct products or services stemming from the activities of an organization, policy, program or project.

In ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ’s results chain, outputs are the direct products or services stemming from the activities of an implementer.

Example:

Output: Academic conference on Canada in the Indo-Pacific Region attended.

Activities

Box 9 - Definition: Activities

Activities is the actions taken or work performed through which inputs are mobilized to produce outputs.

In Global Affairs Canada-funded projects, activities are the direct actions taken or work performed by project implementers. Activities unpack an output into the set of tasks required to complete it. There can be more than one activity per output. For instance:

Activities:

Inputs

Box 10 - Definition: Inputs

Inputs is the financial, human, material and information resources used to produce outputs through activities in order to accomplish outcomes.

Together, inputs, activities and outputs represent “how” implementers will work to achieve a project’s expected outcomes.

1.4 What are the expectations?

1.4.1 What are the RBM expectations of the organization?

In the context of Results-Based Management (RBM), the partner plays a critical role in ensuring the success of the initiative. Let’s break down their responsibilities:

In sum, the partner’s role in RBM encompasses planning, monitoring, and reporting, all aimed at achieving the desired outcomes effectively.

1.4.2 What is the role of ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ in RBM for this initiative?

In the context of the Regional Connectivity Envelope, ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ (GAC) has a role to play in RBM:

2. Results-Based Management tools and methodologies

¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ has adopted a set of methodologies and tools to make managing for results easier for staff, implementers and other stakeholders, you can find them here Part Two: Results-Based Management Methodologies and Tools. For the RCE, the ultimate outcome (stated above) is established by the program as well as the intermediate and immediate outcomes related to the project category. Applicants will only be required to draft outputs, activities and the indicators they will use to measure the immediate and intermediate outcome in accordance with the project category selected.

2.1 What is an output?

Outputs are direct products or services stemming from the activities of an organization, policy, program or project.

In the context of a project funded by ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ, outputs are the products and services stemming from the project activities undertaken by an implementer with the project funds. If there is more than one implementer, responsibility, whether individual or shared, should be clearly established.

Outputs are not results.

In the context of a project funded by ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ, outputs are not the products delivered or services rendered by the intermediaries or beneficiaries of the project.

Outputs are not the products or services of other actors in the country or sector.

2.1.1 How to formulate an expected output statement

It clearly indicates what the implementer will deliver

An output statement describes a product or service to be provided by an implementer to a specific population, group or organization (in other words, project intermediaries or beneficiaries). Output statements should be specific and detailed enough so that it is clear what product or service the implementer will provide, yet they should not attempt to cover every activity required to deliver the output.

It follows a syntax different from that of outcome statements

Since outputs are not results, an output statement is different from an outcome statement. An output statement refers to what an implementer produces or provides, as opposed to an outcome statement which describes the changes intermediaries or beneficiaries experience. It should therefore not begin by describing a change and its direction, and should avoid words such as “increased” or “improved.”

Syntax of an output statement

Phrased in the past tense.

Includes information on:

Remember! Outputs are not results

It should be objective

Outputs should be objective and contain no subjective terms. If words are added to further qualify the product or service the output describes, the words should have a standard and commonly understood definition. The definition can be included as a footnote in the logic model.

It represents a completed package of activities

In the logic model, an output statement is a package of completed work. In the outputs and activities matrix, each output is broken down into its component activities. Further breakdown below the activity level to sub-activities is possible. However, sub-activities should appear only in the project work breakdown structure and not in the outputs and activities matrix. Consequently, it is important to differentiate between the output itself, activities and sub-activities.

Example of outputs:

For more information, please refer to

2.2 The logic model

Like a roadmap or a blueprint, a logic model is a visual depiction of the main elements of a theory of change for a specific project or program, reflecting the series of changes that are critical to achieving project success. It depicts the logical connections between the planned outputs and the expected outcomes (immediate, intermediate and ultimate) that the project aims to achieve or contribute to. ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ’s logic model starts at the ultimate outcome level and now ends at the output level.

The logic model forms a pyramid shape with multiple complementary pathways branching off below one ultimate outcome level. Each pathway addresses a different aspect or element of the issue targeted by the project. Achievement of the ultimate outcome depends on the achievement of all outcomes along each pathway. Arrows between the levels represent assumptions (explained in the theory of change narrative) about why the outputs or outcomes from one level should lead or contribute to the changes at the next level, and about existing conditions, including risks, which may affect the achievement of the outcomes.

Remember! The logic model is a key Results-Based Management design and management tool—not a form to fill out and then file away

The logic model is used as both a planning and design tool during the development of a project, and a management tool during project implementation.

The purpose of the logic model is to:

Ultimate Outcome

Intermediate and Immediate Outcomes

Knowledge Sharing

Training

Research

Indo-Pacific cultural events

Indigenous events and reconciliation

The work of others

Note that the logic model captures only the relationships between the outputs delivered by the project and outcomes to which they contribute. In many cases, logic model outcomes are also dependent on the work of other actors, for example, other donors or local organizations. The work of others is not usually captured in the logic model, but it should be captured as “assumptions” in the theory of change narrative.

Standard template – logic model

¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ has a standard template for a .

Logic model structure

In a ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ logic model, an ultimate outcome (change in state, conditions or well-being of beneficiaries) should be supported by two or three intermediate outcomes (changes in performance, behaviour or practice) that are expected to occur in order for it to be achieved. This is because there are usually multiple changes in performance, behaviour or practice among various actors that need to occur to make the change at the ultimate outcome level possible.

Each intermediate outcome should be supported by two or three immediate outcomes (changes in capacity: skills, ability, knowledge, etc.). This is because there are usually multiple needs in terms of capacity that need to be addressed in order for a change in performance, behaviour or practice (the intermediate outcome) to occur.

Each immediate outcome should be supported by two or three outputs (direct products or services stemming from the project activities). This is because it will often take more than one product or service to bring about a change in capacity.

2.3 Indicators

2.3.1 Developing indicators for your project

Indicators are the core component of the performance measurement framework.

Box 11 - Definition: Performance Measurement Framework

A performance measurement framework is the Results-Based Management tool used to systematically plan the collection of relevant indicator data over the lifetime of the project, in order to assess and demonstrate progress made in achieving expected results. The performance measurement framework is the “skeleton” of the monitoring plan: it documents the major elements of the monitoring system in order to ensure regular collection of actual data on the performance measurement framework indicators. The performance measurement framework contains all of the indicators used to measure progress on the achievement of the project’s outcomes and outputs. In addition, it specifies who is responsible for collecting data on the indicator, from what source, at what frequency and with what method. It also includes the baseline data and target for each indicator.

See section 2.4 Performance Measurement Framework for more information.

Box 12 - Definition: Indicator

Indicator: An indicator, also known as a performance indicator, is a means of measuring actual outcomes and outputs. It can be qualitative or quantitative, and is composed of a unit of measure, a unit of analysis and a context. Indicators are neutral; they neither indicate a direction of change, nor embed a target.

It is important that the stakeholders agree beforehand on the indicators that will be used to measure the performance of the project.

Quantitative indicators

Quantitative indicators are used to measure quantities or amounts.

 Example of quantitative indicators

Qualitative indicators

Qualitative indicators capture experiential information, such as the quality of something, or beneficiaries’ perception of their situation. They can help measure the presence or absence of specific conditions, or an individual or group’s perception of how a service compares with established standards.

Qualitative indicators can capture contextual information about situations, events and practices.

Note: There has been much debate regarding the value of quantitative data and that of qualitative information and whether quantitative measures (or indicators) are better than qualitative ones. This debate is now almost settled in the evaluation field with the growing usage of mixed methods. Practitioners have abandoned the idea that these sources of information are irreconcilable: both types of information are necessary. In fact, all quantitative measures are based on qualitative judgments and all qualitative measures can be coded and analyzed quantitatively.

To adequately assess the achievement of results, an officer/manager needs both quantitative and qualitative measures. For example, ‎it is not enough to know how many women are participating in an activity. The quality of their participation and experience is also important to capture to have a full picture.

Because it is difficult to organize qualitative data for comparison or analysis, qualitative indicators should be quantified wherever possible. This can be done by using a scale, for example, “level of confidence (1-4 scale) of farmers (f/m) in the security of roads leading to local market”.

 Example of a qualitative indicator with scale:

 Example of other qualitative indicators:

Remember! Proper disaggregation of data is vitally important to the usefulness of the data collected.

Structure of a performance indicator

Performance indicators are composed of three elements: a unit of measure, a unit of analysis and a context.

The unit of measure is the first element of the indicator: number, percentage, level, ratio, etc. It is important to include in the unit of measure the notion of proportionality, by ensuring that it contains both a numerator and a denominator. This is often expressed by stating the unit of measure as number out of total (#/total) or percentage out of total (%/total).

The unit of analysis is who or what will be observed: individuals, institutions, social artifacts or social groups. The type of unit of analysis will determine whether the data will need to be disaggregated by sex, age, ethnicity, rural/urban setting, socio-economic status, ownership or any other category relevant to the project or program. This disaggregation is vitally important to the usefulness of the data collected. For example, it is impossible to measure changes in women’s access to basic services if the data collected during project monitoring does not disaggregate by sex. Similarly, a project that aims to improve the health of a specific marginalized ethnic group through rehabilitating and staffing remote regional health centres would need those centres to collect patient information in a way that allows disaggregation by ethnicity.

Table 1 - Unit of analysis by type

TypeExamples
Individuals (female and male)Trainees, teachers, journalists, publishers, elected/appointed representatives, senior government officials, citizens, entrepreneurs, participants, law enforcement officials, judges, police, inspectors, persons with disabilities, indigenous children, trade officials, refugees, etc.
InstitutionsGovernment departments, human rights commissions, state institutions, private-sector institutions, peace and security institutions, law-enforcement institutions, executive bodies (for example: prime minister’s office, cabinet), chambers of commerce, non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, businesses, etc.
Social artifacts"A social artifact is any product of social beings [individuals/groups] or their behavior. Examples include: books, newspapers, paintings, poems ... songs, photos, etc." Other examples could include: budgeting and reporting systems, arrests, codes of law, standard operating procedures, manuals, dialogue/forums, policies, official reports, maps, etc.
Social groups with shared defined characteristicsSocial groups could include professional groups, nationalities, ethnicities, or groups sharing socio-economic conditions. For example: National Association for Pediatrics, local religious association, media associations, bar associations, veterans associations, provincial college and university association, etc.

The context is the set of circumstances that specify the particular aspect of the output or outcome that the indicator is intended to measure. For example, if the expected outcome is "Improved access to government-funded primary schools for girls and boys of province X in country Y", and it has been determined that one way to measure progress is to see how many children live within a certain distance from a publically-funded school, then the context could be “living within a one-kilometre walk of a provincially-funded primary school.”

Table 2 - Illustration of the structure of a performance indicator

Unit of MeasureUnit of AnalysisContext
#/totalcivil society organizationsengaging in Canadian Indo-Pacific affairs
Level of confidence (on a five-point scale)of Indigenous persons (f/m)to host future cultural events with their regional Indigenous counterparts
%/totalresearch events in Canadaare on the Indo-Pacific region
%/totalof international Indo-Pacific civil society organizationsoperating within Canada
#partnershipsestablished between Canadian and Indo-Pacific organizations
Ratioof Canadian to Indo-Pacific personsattending cultural events in X

Leading, lagging and coincident indicators

We generally use indicators to measure progress on outcomes in the logic model. Sometimes, however, you may also want to measure the assumptions articulated in the theory of change narrative represented by the arrows in your logic model. In this case you can use “leading” indicators to measure things preceding the change or “lagging” indicators to measure things that follow the change. Data on these indicators can validate these assumptions. As explained above, at each level in the logic model, we are making assumptions. Leading and lagging indicators allow us to track those assumptions by measuring a little lower or a little higher than the actual outcome itself, without actually measuring the next level in the logic model.

Ideally, indicators would always measure things that directly coincide with the changes described in the expected outcomes of your logic model. In some cases it may be difficult or impossible to find such “coincident” indicators. In these cases, you can also use "leading" or "lagging" indicators.

The concept of leading, lagging, and coincident indicators is borrowed from the business cycle in economics. The following example of a traffic light is helpful to further explain the concept.

Box 13 – Definitions: Leading, lagging and coincident indicators

Definitions adapted from Investopedia, What are leading, lagging and coincident indicators? What are they for?

Leading indicator: These types of indicators signal future events. Think of how the amber traffic light indicates the coming of the red light, letting you know that very soon, you will not be able to go through the intersection. In international programming, leading indicators work the same way but, of course, are less accurate than streetlights. For example, # of new schools established and # of additional teachers recruited can be leading indicators of increased access to basic education. They measure something that happens before classes start, and thus they should give you a good idea of future access to education for children (though not always).

Lagging indicator: A lagging indicator is one that follows an event. In the traffic light example, the amber light is a lagging indicator of a safe crossing situation. It tells you that, just before it came on; it was safe to go through the intersection. The importance of a lagging indicator is its ability to confirm that a pattern has occurred. For example, # of students graduating from primary school can be a lagging indicator of increased access to basic education, as more students graduating is typically associated with increased enrollment in schools.

Coincident indicator: Coincident indicators occur at approximately the same time as the conditions they signify. In the traffic light example, the green light would be a coincident indicator of the possibility of driving through the intersection safely. Rather than predicting future events, these types of indicators change at the same time as the expected outcome. For example, enrollment rates are a good coincident indicator of increased access to basic education, as increased enrollment rates should coincide with an increase in access.

Types of changes measured by indicators

Each indicator can be classified according to what level it measures in the logic model: outputs, immediate outcomes, intermediate outcomes and ultimate outcomes.

Fore more information, please refer to

Criteria of a strong performance indicator

  1. Validity: Does it measure what it is intended to measure?
    • Will this performance indicator really measure the outcome and output? Remember that different indicators are meant to measure the different levels of the logic model.
  2. Reliability: Will it be consistent over time?
    • Does this performance indicator enable you to measure the outcome and output over time?
    • Will it consistently produce the same data if it is applied repeatedly to the same situation over time?
    • If a different researcher collects the data, will it be consistent?
  3. Sensitivity: Will it measure changes as they happen?
    • When the change described by the outcome statement starts to happen, will the indicator be sensitive enough to pick up on that change?
    • Will the performance indicator measure both improvements and deterioration in the situation (in other words is it neutral)?
  4. Simplicity: How easy will it be to collect the data?
    • Are the sources of information easily accessible?
    • Are the equipment and/or expertise needed to track the performance indicator readily available?
    • Does this performance indicator enable a relatively easy analysis of the result?
    • Is it clear and direct enough to be understood by all stakeholders?
  5. Usefulness: Will the information collected be useful for decision-making?
    • Does the information provided by the performance indicator meet the needs of its audience?
    • Does knowing this information help you or other stakeholders to do things better or more effectively?
    • Is the performance indicator expressed in a way that will resonate with the intended audience?
    • Does the performance indicator make it easy to communicate the status of the result?
    • Will this performance indicator provide the information in a timeframe that allows it to be useful?
  6. Affordability: Do you have the resources to collect data?
    • Can you afford to collect data on this performance indicator?
    • Is the potential cost worth the information you will get?

2.4 The Performance Measurement Framework

It is important to house all of your project's indicators in an easy to manage document which shows the indicator's alignment to their respective outcomes. At GAC we use a Performance Measurement Framework (PMF); here are some details on how we create and use the PMF, please consider this when creating your reporting and monitoring tool.

At ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ, the performance measurement framework is the Results-Based Management tool used to systematically plan the collection of relevant indicator data over the lifetime of the program/portfolio and project, in order to assess and demonstrate progress made in achieving expected results. The performance measurement framework is the “skeleton” of the monitoring plan: it documents the major elements of the monitoring system in order to ensure regular collection of actual data on the indicators identified in the performance measurement framework. The performance measurement framework contains all of the indicators used to measure progress on or toward the achievement of the program/portfolio’s and project’s expected outcomes and outputs. In addition, it specifies who is responsible for collecting data on the indicator, from what source, at what frequency and with what method. It also includes the baseline data and target for each indicator.

As with the logic model, the performance measurement framework should be developed and/or assessed in a participatory fashion with the inclusion of local partners, intermediaries (duty bearers / responsibility holders), beneficiaries (rights holders) and other stakeholders, and relevant ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ staff.

Using the Performance Measurement Framework for management

The performance measurement framework facilitates the “management for results” during program/portfolio and project implementation. It provides a plan for the collection of data during implementation. The actual data collected on indicators identified in the performance measurement framework, and the program/portfolio’s and project team’s analysis of this data, allows the team to assess progress, and detect issues that may interfere with the achievement of expected outcomes early enough to take corrective action/make adjustments. An operationalized performance measurement framework is thus necessary for evidence-based program/portfolio and project management decision-making. Of course, this can only be done if there is a basis for comparison. For this reason, it is always necessary to capture baseline data and it is always necessary to set targets in the performance measurement framework. Remember: without knowing where you started and where you want to go, it is impossible to properly assess progress.

In sum, the performance measurement framework will help you:

The data collected on the performance measurement framework indicators will help you:

Standard template – Performance Measurement Framework

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Content of the Performance Measurement Framework

The performance measurement framework is divided into eight columns: expected results, indicators, baseline data, targets, data sources, data collection methods, frequency, and responsibility. To complete a performance measurement framework, you will need to fill in each of the columns accurately.

For more information, please refer to

3. Regional Connectivity Envelope (RCE) RBM examples

Please refer to these examples to create your own RBM for your specific project:

3.1 Examples of logic model with RCE outcomes and optional - Project personalized outcomes

3.1.1 Logic model for Climate Initiative Conference in India 

 Rainfalls Canada, in partnership with the Indian organization One Climate, is spearheading a week-long conference on climate initiatives to be held in New Delhi. Rainfalls Canada will act as the primary facilitator for this event, with One Climate offering crucial support in organizing and executing the project.

This conference is designed to enhance knowledge sharing, aiming to foster deeper and more meaningful engagement between Canadian organizations and their Indo-Pacific counterparts. It seeks to achieve key intermediate outcomes by facilitating increased interaction through conferences, workshops, roundtable discussions, and panel discussions focused on the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, the project is expected to result in immediate outcomes by providing greater access for Canadian organizations to engage in events that promote knowledge exchange with Indo-Pacific counterparts.

The Climate Initiative Conference aligns with strategic objective #4 of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, which emphasizes building a sustainable and green future. This conference will serve as a platform for both organizations to exchange valuable experiences and explore collaborative efforts aimed at reversing biodiversity loss, fostering sustainable economic growth, and developing communities that are resilient to climate change. Through this initiative, both organizations are committed to driving forward impactful climate solutions and strengthening international cooperation in the pursuit of a greener future.

Ultimate outcomes

Regional Connectivity Envelope ultimate outcome 1000:

Rainfalls Canada ultimate outcome 1000:

Intermediate outcomes

Regional Connectivity Envelope intermediate outcome 1100:

Rainfalls Canada intermediate outcome 1100:

Immediate outcomes

Regional Connectivity Envelope immediate outcome 1110:

Rainfalls Canada immediate outcome 1110:

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  1. Planning and coordination: 
    • Develop a detailed project plan and timeline
    • Identify and invite key speakers and participants from both regions (government, think tanks, academics institutions)
    • Coordinate with regional organizations in India for logistics and support
  2. Marketing and outreach: 
    • Design and distribute promotional materials
    • Engage in social media marketing campaigns
    • Send invitations and manage registrations
  3. Event execution: 
    • Book and set up the venue
    • Buy technical equipment
    • Facilitate conference sessions, workshops, and panel discussions
    • Manage logistics (transportation, accommodation, catering)
  4. Follow-up and evaluation: 
    • Gather feedback from participants
    • Evaluate the success of the event in terms of attendance, engagement, and outcomes
    • Prepare a final report and disseminate findings

Indicators

3.1.2 Logic Model for Cybersecurity training in Japan

CyberCan, in partnership with Guardians of Japan’s Web, is launching a project to develop and deliver a series of comprehensive cybersecurity training programs. This will be tailored for Japanese civil society organization (CSO) representatives. CyberCan will take the lead as the primary facilitator, ensuring the effective execution and impact of the training initiative.

This project is categorized under training initiatives and is set to significantly impact key outcomes. It will contribute meaningfully to the intermediate outcome: enhanced engagement between Indo-Pacific CSOs and Canadian organizations. As well as strengthening interactions between Canadian CSOs and their Indo-Pacific counterparts. The immediate outcome consists of increasing the capacity of both Canadian and Indo-Pacific CSOs to operate effectively within their respective regions and enhance their ability to facilitate training sessions for their counterparts.

The cybersecurity training initiative in Japan aligns directly with Strategic Objective 1 of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, which emphasizes the promotion of peace, resilience, and security in the region. By addressing this objective, the project aims to strengthen the resilience of Indo-Pacific nations against security challenges. The training will build critical cybersecurity capabilities within Japanese CSOs, enabling them to better protect against and respond to cyber-crimes, threats, and attacks. The project will also foster collaboration between Canadian and Japanese cybersecurity organizations, facilitating knowledge exchange and joint efforts to address cyber threats. By improving cybersecurity defenses, the project contributes to a more stable and secure digital environment. This is essential for maintaining peace and stability in both the Indo-Pacific region and Canada.

Ultimate outcomes

Regional Connectivity Envelope ultimate outcome 1000:

Cybersecurity training in Japan ultimate outcome 1000:

Intermediate outcomes 

Regional Connectivity Envelope intermediate outcome 1200:

Cybersecurity training in Japan intermediate outcomes 1100 and 1200:

Immediate Outcomes 

Regional Connectivity Envelope immediate outcomes 1210 and 1220:

Cybersecurity Training in Japan immediate outcomes 1110 and 1120:

Cybersecurity Training in Japan immediate outcomes 1210 and 1220:

Outputs 

Activities 

  1. Needs Assessment:
    • Conduct a needs assessment to identify specific cybersecurity training needs and priorities of Japanese CSOs.
  2. Curriculum Development: 
    • Develop a tailored cybersecurity training curriculum based on the needs assessment and Japanese cybersecurity methods.
    • Create and distribute training materials, guides, and online resources for ongoing learning and reference.
  3. Logistics and Coordination: 
    • Arrange logistical details including venue selection, accommodation, travel, training materials, and scheduling.
  4. Training Program Delivery: 
    • Deliver a series of training workshops in Japan focusing on:
    • Introduction to core cybersecurity principles and practices.
    • Detailed sessions on advanced cybersecurity methods, tools, and incident response.
    • Hands-on training with real-world scenarios and cybersecurity tools.
    • Include sessions on regional cybersecurity issues and the specific cybersecurity challenges faced by Indo-Pacific CSOs.
  5. Training of Trainers: 
    • Conduct a specialized module to train selected Japanese CSO representatives on how to facilitate cybersecurity training within their own organizations and networks.
  6. Workshops and Seminars: 
    • Host workshops and seminars with Japanese CSOs to share best practices, case studies, and insights gained from the training.
  7. Networking Events: 
    • Organize networking events to foster collaboration between Canadian and Japanese CSOs and other Indo-Pacific stakeholders.
  8. Post-Training Assessment: 
    • Conduct assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of the training, including participant feedback and performance evaluations.

Indicators

Annexes

Tip Sheets

We designed the following tip sheets and checklists to help users navigate sections of the RBM guide

Tools and templates

The following tools make it easier to manage for results throughout the entire life cycle of an investment or project for ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ staff, partners and executing agencies. ¶¶ÒùÊÓƵ has standard templates for these tools:

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