2.1 Purpose, objective, scope and utility of the evaluation

Chapter 2. EVALUATION SCOPE AND METHODOLOGY

This chapter sets out the evaluation purpose and scope, lists key evaluation questions, and briefly describes the evaluation methodology and limitations.

2.1 Purpose, objective, scope and utility of the evaluation

The evaluation aims to inform and accompany UNDP efforts to integrate LNOB principles throughout the organization’s programmes and operations. It provides the Executive Board, UNDP management, and other stakeholders with an assessment of LNOB integration to date, as well as recommendations for improvement and lessons. This formative evaluation has a two-fold learning and accountability objective:

I. First, to generate lessons, conclusions and recommendations that contribute to decision-making and learning, with a view to improving the UNDP contribution to Agenda 2030. Recognizing the complexities of LNOB, the evaluation touches on conceptual and empirical elements.

II. Second, to support corporate accountability by assessing UNDP performance and contributions to date in delivering on its stated objective to integrate LNOB and RFBF, by identifying contextual, strategic and operational factors that positively and/or negatively influence progress.

The evaluation assesses key aspects of UNDP programmes and institutional effectiveness at global, regional and country levels, covering the period 2018 to mid-2022, with some attention to earlier strategic decisions and actions for background and contextualization. Within the limitations acknowledged in section 2.4, the evaluation attempts to:

a. Reconstruct and assess the appropriateness and coherence of the UNDP corporate approach to LNOB; trace the relevance, efficiency and effectiveness of key UNDP contributions to inclusive and transformative change for select processes and initiatives, guided by equality, non-discrimination and equity principles; and

b. Assess UNDP institutional capacity, including data systems, as relevant, to address LNOB principles.

LNOB-responsive operations (procurement, logistics, fiduciary services, etc.) were excluded from the scope due to lack of adequate time and data availability.

The findings, conclusions and recommendations generated by the evaluation are expected to be used to influence strategic direction, to inform theory and practice of UNDP interventions across Signature Solutions and to adjust institutional effectiveness in integrating LNOB.