Journal Article
Impact evaluation and synthesis

We examine how impact evaluation (IE) and associated syntheses contribute to evidence generation in low- and middle-income (LMIC) countries. We interviewed over 50 individuals from relevant organisations and five LMIC countries and drew on data from reports and repositories.

The number of development-oriented IEs has shown sustained growth, but tracking of use is too often weak. We conclude that there has been progress , including more flexible products, but that impact could be improved. IEs are an important part of a wider evidence ecosystem, and their evidence needs to be better used (and tracked). Good practice should be promoted more systematically.