The implementation of even a very well conceived programme may also pose problems and difficulties that may impede efficient delivery of benefits and their utilization by the beneficiaries. It is therefore necessary that the implementation of these programmes be observed and studied systematically in order to have a realistic assessment of the manner in which the services are actually delivered and utilized. Such efforts may be made with a view to identifying points of divergence between what is envisaged and what obtains in the field and the problems experienced by the implementing agencies and the beneficiaries. Monitoring on these lines is the tool for arriving at modifications in the policies of implementing agencies and strategies employed in the implementation of these programmes.
Monitoring is a continuous, routine collection of data at the field level by non-technical staff.
The ultimate success of the programme can be judged by the impact it makes on the health of the beneficiaries. Impact can be seen by periodic evaluation of the programme, which is more specifically intended for programme continuation, discontinuation, modification, revision, or expansion. It is directed towards quantifying achievements attributable to the programme in particular planning periods. Monitoring and evaluation must be viewed as an integral part of the planning process and be built into the scheme at the beginning. Although actual monitoring begins when the programme is initiated, exercises for devising the monitoring systems must start even earlier.