monitoring and evaluation manual for researchers

Abstract

An impact evaluation framework encompasses a cohesive structure for evaluating research investment at project, program and portfolio levels with accountability as the prime purpose. An impact framework would normally include triple bottom line reporting whereby a broad set of economic, environmental and social impacts and benefits are considered. This is a convenient way of expressing the Australian community's interest in the wider outcomes produced by research investment. Other purposes served from impact evaluation processes include improving current investment management and future investment planning. It should be acknowledged that research is endeavouring to discover and understand facts and information not yet known. In this regard, a research project can by definition ‘fail’ in a direct application sense yet still be successful in a research sense.