Informing Policy and Decisions
Behind the Scenes of Evaluation
Several programs operate in the background but serve as the backbone of IEG’s evaluation practice. IEG invests in the development of cutting-edge evaluation methods through its Methods Advisory Function, in ensuring the strength of Bank Group accountability through the Management Action Record, and in staff learning through the IEG Academy.
Methods Advisory Function
In FY22 IEG’s Methods Advisory Function provided advisory support to evaluation teams, developed guidance on methods and data use (including qualitative data analysis, portfolio analysis, and the use of data science techniques), and peer reviewed reports. Through learning events for IEG and external audiences, they shared knowledge about good practices in evaluation design, the use of methods, and innovations in evaluation methods and data use. The team also contributed to various discussions and initiatives around data systems and use, evaluation quality, and the integration of data science techniques in the practice of evaluation. FY22 also saw the publication of three methods papers on innovative methodological applications in evaluation. Learn more about the series and read the papers on the Evaluation Methods Resources page.
Management Action Record
The Management Action Record (MAR) is a key element of the World Bank Group’s accountability and wider knowledge management framework. In FY21, the MAR underwent a reform, and in FY22, IEG continued optimizing the platform. This year, many of the envisioned reform elements materialized, and significant progress was made in enhancing the quality of evidence used in the MAR system. A new assessment framework developed by management, to be piloted by IEG, is helping establish a shared language about what achieving results and outcomes looks like. IEG and Bank Group management are moving toward making the MAR more useful, focused on outcomes, and aligned with the Bank Group’s broad strategic priorities.
IEG Academy
The IEG Academy focuses on building and reinforcing the staff skills needed to carry out IEG’s mandate successfully. The FY22 Learning Days delivered 15 live, interactive learning sessions and four social events over four dedicated days to over 120 IEG staff and consultants in a fully virtual format. Addressing select learning needs of staff in all roles, the program focused on evaluation methods topics (such as Foundations of Evaluation Design, Fundamentals on Data Science for Evaluations, Portfolio Review Analysis for Task Team Leaders, and Overview of National Monitoring and Evaluation Systems), writing, and training on key soft skills such as working in hybrid teams, leading cross functional teams, and leading without authority.
In addition to the synchronous Learning Days, IEG Academy delivered learning through these offerings and modalities in FY22:
- Virtual classes and brown-bag lunches (46)
- Library of resources including on-the-job tools, self-paced eLearning courses and other recommended resources by role
- Mentoring program supporting pairs matched in FY22 to work together remotely
- Two new self-paced eLearning modules on Foundations of Evaluation Design
- Onboarding guidance, resources, and training to orient new hires