Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning / Logic Models and Theories of Change – USAID/RFS Good Practice MEL Notes
Global
Global
Guidance Note
2023
Global
Global
Technical Guidance Document
2023
Logic models serve as a potent visual representation of a Theory of Change (ToC), encompassing various forms such as Results Frameworks, results chains, and Logical Frameworks. While not a stringent requirement by USAID at the activity level, the integration of a ToC and logic model in an Activity Monitoring and Evaluation Plan (AMELP) is fervently recommended. This guidance note, part of the RFS Good Practice MEL Notes series, elucidates the alignment of these models with the stated objectives of an activity, set within a particular context. It accentuates the coherence between components of the Activity MEL Plan and the ToC, fostering a comprehensive understanding of development paradigms.
The infographic titled “Gender Pay Gap in the United States, September 18, 2023” by Andrea Pozderac and Azra K. Nurkic, sheds light on the persistent gender wage disparity in the U.S. In 2023, women earned 84.5 cents for every dollar earned by men, indicating a 15.5 cent gap. The infographic explores various factors contributing to this gap, such as occupational segregation, work experience, and educational attainment. It also highlights state-wise disparities, with Connecticut showing the smallest gap and Utah the largest. Additionally, it underscores the overrepresentation of women in lower-paying jobs and the challenges faced by women of color.
The USDA FFPr Exporting Quality Program undergoes a comprehensive evaluation in this document, highlighting its impact and efficacy from September 2015 to December 2021. Managed by the International Executive Service Corps (IESC), this initiative strives to foster development and progress in the food sector. The Institute for Development Impact, with contributions from experts like Brian Foster, Molly Hageboeck, and Elizabeth Issac, has meticulously assessed the program’s trajectory, culminating in this final evaluation. The report delves into the program’s context, its alignment with desired outcomes, and offers insights into areas of improvement and success.
In today’s competitive business landscape, evidence-based decision-making is vital for the success and longevity of organizations. It allows companies to identify potential risks and opportunities, allocate resources efficiently, and adapt to changing market conditions. Compliance with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) regulations and industry standards is crucial for mitigating legal and financial risks, and maintaining a loyal and growing customer base. Data analysis plays an essential role in informing business decision-making and ensuring adherence to these regulations and standards, which in turn impacts long-term business performance.
This article, written for the Small Business Association for International Companies (SBAIC) discusses the importance of harnessing data analysis for ESG compliance and sustainable business practices, developing learning agendas for effective ESG compliance management, and provides five illustrative learning questions that can be used to guide ESG and sustainable performance data analysis.