2.10 Results and Indicators

Summary: Discusses the importance of defining measurable indicators to track project progress and outcomes, facilitating informed decision-making and project evaluation.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the importance of defining project results and indicators for monitoring and evaluation.
2. Learn how to identify and define measurable indicators to track project progress and outcomes.
3. Recognize the role of results and indicators in assessing project effectiveness and informing decision-making.

Indicators are important for coordinators, managers and evaluators to follow up and examine the success and completion of the project and its tasks (Parmenter, 2015). Therefore, it is important for proposal writers to identify objective and verifiable indicators. Each indicator should be related with the activities, tasks and/or outputs of the Project.

In order to follow up the activities and tasks, SMART indicators should be identified (Shahin & Mahbod, 2007, p.27-29). SMART means:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable
• Realistic
• Time-Bound

Examples:

• 2 surveys conducted to 500 young people (age range: 18-25) by the end of the 3rd month of the Project.
• 10 training session were organized to 250 disadvantaged people between 8th and 10th month of the Project.
• 1 website is created for the dissemination and valorization of the Project, its viewcount is 300.000 by the end of the Project.

• Well defined indicators will allow you to check the quality of the Project results and to determine the potential risks and deviations from the objectives.

It is good to use quantitative statements. Also you can support it with qualitative statements as well.

Additionally, you can refer target groups and geographic location in your indicators, if it is requested or deemed necessary.