MECap Final Report-2015-2020

What was MECap?

The Expanding Monitoring and Evaluation Capacities (MECap) task order was launched in Fiscal Year 2015 by the Bureau for Policy, Planning and Learning (PPL) to provide technical assistance (TA) in Program Cycle implementation, including planning, designing, conducting, and using evidence from monitoring and evaluation data. MECap offered Mission and Washington offices expert technical support through embedded assistance, clinic and workshop facilitation, tool development, targeted assistance, and knowledge sharing. MECap was a highly flexible mechanism that worked closely with PPL, Missions, and Washington-based offices to promote good Program Cycle practices and integrate those practices into ongoing work processes.

What are MECap’s Legacy and Accomplishments?

MECap, over its five-plus years of service to USAID, leaves an impressive record of achievements. Its work lives on through the capacity it has built and the processes left in place within Missions and Washington-based offices. MECap delivered direct assistance to 107 Washington and Mission offices through 72 placements, 60 TA assignments, and 239 in-country short-term travel assignments. The Final Report summarizes the MECap journey.   

What were MECap contributions to Learning Lab?

MECap staff and Fellows contributed in collaboration with USAID staff to several products available on Learning Lab across the four MECap objectives. The titles are hyperlinked to the resource on Learning Lab. 

Objective 1: Expand guidance, tools, and conceptual approaches

Managing Peer Review of Draft Evaluation Report (October 7, 2015)

Objective 2: Provide surge capacity for office in need of TA

Objective 3: Undertake special studies to support Program Cycle

MEL Platforms Assessment Report (December 29, 2017)

Objective 4: Advance staff knowledge of new approaches to M&E