To aim evaluations at providing useful findings, projects and programs are assessed strategically, based on the client's purpose and information needs. Evaluations are designed to lead to action. To be useful, evaluations need to produce relevant, action-oriented findings and this is fostered by sustained involvement and ownership by the client and stakeholders throughout the process. No single, best, generic evaluation methodology exists. Each case usually requires tools and methods appropriate to the data that is to be gathered and analyzed, and appropriate to the client's needs.
Credible evaluations interlace quantitative and qualitative data from several sources.
Evaluations should enlist the participation of relevant stakeholders. Those affected by the outcome of an evaluation have a right to be involved in the process. Their participation will make the evaluation's purpose and process better understood, promote stakeholder contribution to, and acceptance of, the evaluation results, and will increase the likelihood that the evaluation findings will be utilized. Monitoring and evaluation planning add value at the design stage of a project or program. They can make the project or program more efficient and effective by helping clarify the results to be achieved.