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partner organizations. In general, it can be very challenging to evaluate both multi-stakeholder partnership projects and the partnering process itself due to their multifaceted and complex nature.
A N N E X : T H E P R O C E S S O F M U LT I - S TA K E H O L D E R P A R T N E R S H I P B U I L D I N G
In this phase, outputs, outcomes and impacts of the projects are measured and evaluated. It is important that at an earlier phase of their partnership (Phase 4), partners agree on a number of indicators (both tangible “deliverables” and broader “process” indicators) and use them as a basis for tracking the impact and effectiveness of their partnership project over time. In addition, a regular cycle of reporting must be in place to ensure that the partners are informed of project progress and challenges.
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Phase 9: Reviewing This phase offers an opportunity to review the process and assess how effective the multi-stakeholder partnership has been in achieving its results. This evaluation process should cover the measuring of the results and effectiveness of the partnership from the perspective of the partnering organizations. Accordingly, partners are likely to measure or assess three things:
• impact of their partnership project on society; • value of the partnership to the individual partner organizations; • actual costs and benefits of the partnership approach. By considering all three issues, the partners will be able to evaluate if the partnership has been effective in achieving its aims, and if the partnership approach selected was the most appropriate. This information can provide a valuable basis for the review of the overall partnership strategy pursued in the next stage.
Phase 10: Revising In light of the assessment and lessons learned, the key partnership documents may require a change that needs to be reviewed and agreed by all partners. On the one hand, there may be external influences that could change an individual partner’s perspective; on the other hand, it is more likely that other risks and issues to the partnership as a whole might be raised as a consequence of the individual partner review. It is essential that these risks and issues are discussed fully by all partners before the final decision is made and new priorities and goals are reflected on.