Disclaimer Monitoring and Evaluation: Capability Statement In all of its engagements of this nature, IBTCI seeks to tailor monitoring and evaluation methodologies to the particular needs of missions, programs and projects. For example, under the USAID-funded Iraq Monitoring and Evaluation Performance Program, Phase II (MEPP II) contract, IBTCI will launch a web-based performance reporting system that will assist USAID/Iraq to closely monitor all progress, impact assess impact and access reports required to review, analyze and evaluate the performance of its implementing partners under rapidly changing conditions. IBTCI recognizes that research and evaluation are the backbone of successful strategies and programs. Our approach to monitoring and evaluation is not only thorough and rigorous, but also tailored to the specific needs and requirements of our clients. IBTCI has also learned that there is a close relationship between the depth and accuracy of monitoring activities, the quality of evaluations, and, thus, is promoting exhaustive computer systems to improve monitoring and management reporting systems. IBTCI has successfully conducted several monitoring and evaluation projects for which it has received high written commendations. Monitoring: IBTCI views monitoring as a continuing function that aims primarily to provide the client with regular feedback and early indications of progress or lack thereof in the achievement of intended results. Actual performance or situation is tracked against what was planned or expected according to pre-determined standards. IBTCI staff collects and analyzes data on implementation processes, strategies and results, and recommends corrective measures. Evaluation: IBTCI views evaluation as a time-bound exercise to assess systematically and objectively the relevance, performance and success of ongoing and completed programs and projects. Evaluation is undertaken selectively to answer specific questions to guide decision-makers and to provide information on whether underlying theories and assumptions used in program development were valid, what worked and what did not work and why. The aim is to determine relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, impact and sustainability. IBTCI, also, views evaluations as a vehicle for extracting cross-cutting lessons from operating unit experiences and determining the need for modifications to the strategic results framework. Monitoring and evaluation methodologies used by IBTCI staff allow for a more rigorous focus on results, learning and the actual application of knowledge gained from monitoring and evaluation. IBTCI staff plan monitoring and evaluation simultaneously as evaluation is viewed as an important monitoring tool and monitoring is an important input to evaluation. Meaningful information about outcomes and outputs are captured, regardless of the unit of analysis used by a monitoring and evaluation plan. An evaluation plan is drawn up to cover the outcomes of the period, which is a key element in performance assessment. Most importantly, IBTCI staff view planning not being primarily about scheduling but about determining the best approach depending on the needs and the nature of what is being monitored and evaluated.