MONITORING GRANTS

Evaluation is the robust analysis of how a research project or programme has been delivered in practice and whether its objectives were met, including what impacts these objectives may have had. Evaluation can provide an understanding of the actual economic, financial, social and environmental impacts of a project or programme. Good evaluation is multi-faceted, looking at all aspect of the project or programme, and should look for any evidence that a project or programme does not work or has not delivered, as well as evidence that they do or have. Well planned and designed evaluations can provide evidence for: accountability and validation; scheme performance and impact; strategy and planning; policy and advocacy; as well as organisational learning. In order to produce the insights that can inform Health Research Board strategic decisions and demonstrate value-for money from itsinvestments, the evaluations should be objective, rigorous, timely and transparent, as well as integrated and resourced.