In the past, impact assessments were intensive studies primarily conducted by donors to measure the results of a specific program. Over time, however, assessments have become more practitioner-oriented. Used as a management tool, an impact assessment can help an MFI identify the operational processes that best enable it to fulfill its mission, and thus produce the greatest impact on the lives of its clients.
Every MFI must go through the process of identifying its context and institutional needs, determining specific objectives for an impact assessment, and developing a design and methodology suitable to those objectives rather than replicate a good practice impact assessment conducted by another institution. No two impact assessments should be the same as each should reflect the unique context and needs of a particular MFI. The sections listed below are devoted to the major steps of designing an individualized assessment.
The Guide to Impact Assessment
An overview of the impact assessment process suitable for practitioners, donors, and other interested parties.
The Methodological Issues
The issues surrounding an impact assessment can present formidable dilemmas to those actually designing and carrying out the exercise. Here you'll find detailed guidance on such questions as how to select indicators, who should be involved in the assessment process, and what type of sampling to use.
The Tools
Impact assessments use qualitative and quantitative tools to evaluate the impact of MFI services on the lives of their clients. This section provides a wealth of practical information on topics such as triangulating data, participatory tools, and establishing baselines.