LESS (-)
Full range of human capacity required
(collective skills set)
Existing human capacity
(collectively)
EQUALS (=) Human capacity gaps
(collectively) Chapter 2
Perhaps because M&E is a new area, the bottom-up method has not worked well for assessing human capacity needs for M&E systems. Where this approach has been used, participants were usually only able to state that they needed M&E training, but were not able to pinpoint exact areas of need. For these reasons, this HowTo Guide describes the process steps for doing a top-down HCD assessment. Whether to carry out new HCD assessments HCD assessments should be undertaken periodically as the M&E system is being implemented. Integrating HCD assessments in the design process will help ensure an appropriate HCD strategy. Doing an HCD assessment as the system is being implemented will also ensure that HCD objectives are being met. Doing an HCD assessment as the M&E system is being evaluated will help ensure the long-term availability of skilled human capital and long-term investment in human capital. It should be noted that it is not always necessary to undertake a new HCD assessment. Often, other assessments have been done that can provide general information about capacity gaps. Experienced officials may already know what the capacity gaps are based on their practical work experience. Since capacity gaps will take time to resolve, it makes sense to draw first on previous HCD assessments (even if done a few years ago) before undertaking a new one.
Step 1:
Plan the HCD Assessment
Planning a Human Capacity Assessment will help ensure that its objectives, purpose and outputs are clear. The following questions should be asked in planning such an assessment (FHI, 2002): • • • • •
Does the country have a comprehensive plan for assessing human capacity issues related to the program served by the M&E system? Does the country have a database of available human capacity and areas of technical competence? Is any key sector developing human resource policies? Have staff job descriptions changed? Do program managers have suggestions about how best to link with domestic and regional networks to support implementation of the M&E system? What is the status of distance-learning programs (if any) in the country and are they reaching district implementers or community-based implementers?
Human Capacity for Monitoring and Evaluation Systems
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