Monitoring System Explained

The M&E system refers to the framework and context that is in place in order for the monitoring and evaluation of the project to be implemented.
It is what enables the M&E to function. It also gives the overall picture of how the M&E fits within the system of international development as a whole. This system is reflected in the diagram below:
As demonstrated in the diagram above, the M&E system describes the cycle of designing interventions in international development. It shows how the information from conducting the evaluation will inform future decisions and program designs.
Within the M&E system, steps required for the monitoring and evaluation of a project and when each phase will be identified. It will include the planning phase which should identify indicators and how often data will be collected and who will be collecting the data.1 It will also include capacity building and training project staff. The capacity building should not only focus on direct project staff but also the other stakeholders of the project identified in the stakeholder analysis. Having a capacity building component within the M&E system will increase the likelihood that the M&E will be successful.
In order for the M&E system to be effective each stage of a project should include some aspects of the monitoring and evaluation plan. The system should be updated throughout the project cycle regularly to make adjustments as needed.
The design of the M&E system should consider the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of the monitoring and evaluation of the program. 1 It is particularly important to create an M&E system that is sustainable. In order to do so considerations of how will the data that is collected being stored and how will it be used for future projects should be incorporated into the M&E system.
Ultimately, the M&E system will reflect the all-encompassing environment that is required and in place in order for the M&E plan to be implemented. Including the stages, the resources, the data collection tools, access, etc.