It ascertains whether there was adequate justification for the expenditure incurred and examines whether the resources were spent as economically as possible. This assessment should also determine whether the actions by the various partners were complementary and identify alternative strategies to deliver more and better outputs with the available inputs. Sustainability ascertains the extent to which the project s results have had or are likely to have lasting effects after the termination of the project and the withdrawal of external resources. Their readiness to continue supporting or carrying out specific activities, or even replicate the activities in other regions or sectors of the country, is particularly relevant. The analysis also assesses the availability of local management, financial and human resources that would be needed to maintain the project s results in the long run.
Causality examines the factors or events that have affected the project s results.
If the inputs needed to carry out the planned activities and deliver the expected outputs were available on time, the project s implementation and performance would be successful. If, on the other hand, there were significant deviations from the planned schedules, the analysis would determine the reasons for such changes. The assessment should also analyse the effect of other factors such as technical, administrative or managerial constraints, inadequate inputs, failed commitment by project partners, insufficient funds, a faulty assumption or the effect of an unexpected external factor. Unanticipated effects are identified during the evaluation to ascertain if a project is having any significant unforeseen positive or negative effects. Once identified, appropriate action can be taken to enhance or mitigate them for a greater overall impact.