Develop planning documents for the evaluation or M&E system

An evaluation plan (for a particular evaluation) usually specifies: what will be evaluated; the purpose and criteria for the evaluation; the key evaluation questions; and how data will be collected, analyzed, synthesized and reported. It may include a program theory/logic model.

An evaluation framework (sometimes called a Monitoring and Evaluation framework, or more recently a Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning framework) provides an overall framework for evaluations across different programs or different evaluations of a single program (e.g. process evaluation; impact evaluation). This can include guidance on data sources and management processes, as well as an overall program theory/logic model.

However sometimes the term 'evaluation framework' is used to refer to a plan for a single evaluation or to an organisational policy.


  • Evaluation framework: provides an overall framework  across different evaluations, such as individual projects within a program, or across an organisation
  • Evaluation plan: set out the proposed details of an evaluation including what, how and when an evaluation will take place.
  • Evaluation work plan: involves the development of clear timeframes, deliverables and milestones.​
  • Inception report: set out the evaluation's conceptual framework, key questions and methodology, and timeframe.





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