Monitoring Evaluation Reporting and Improvement (MERI) Plan MLA Phosphorus Use Efficiency Program 2011-2016

Summary

Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement (MERI) is an approach that is iterative and integrative and aims to result in accountability, learning and adaptive management. The structure of this MERI Plan is informed by the four strategic investment themes of the Phosphorus Use Efficiency Program. While some integration across themes is anticipated, the four themes are the building blocks of the Program. This plan details a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework. 1.1 Purpose The purpose of the plan is to:

demonstrate how the Program, through a number of research and development projects, will monitor and evaluate the extent to which it is achieving its objectives and the extent to which it is contributing to the expected outcomes;
provide evaluation questions and indicators to assess progress towards the Program's outcomes and objectives;
assist program managers, project leaders and implementers to address specific evaluation questions, evaluate and report on progress towards and achievement of specified outcomes by planning, budgeting for and implementing good MERI.
1.2 The plan at a glance MERI planning comprises a three-phase cycle including preparation, implementation and review. The three phases will be completed as follows:

Preparation before project implementation
Implementation annual reflection on progress.
Review and assessment mid way through and at the end of the Program.