Article type
Abstract
Background: While there are numerous examples and frameworks for research assessment, including biomedical product development, from a post hoc position, there has been little published on prospective monitoring and evaluation (M&E) approaches for donor-funded projects. And, despite substantial focus from donors on innovation, there is little guidance on how to do M&E for innovation-focused projects.
Objectives: In 2013, FHI 360 began work on a donor-funded project with a goal to develop new contraceptives, with a strong focus on global partnerships, to ensure broad access to quality, affordable, and acceptable products for those most in need. Our M&E approach focuses not only on our own pipeline of product development, but also on expanding and facilitating the field. The M&E approach, which was adapted from outcome mapping, will be described.
Methods: Key elements of the approach are: 1) focus on the outcomes, influences, and changes that are not under the direct control of the project but to which the project can contribute; 2) reflection on and inclusion of what might be possible to achieve (i.e. what would be ideal and visionary, not just realistic); and, 3) recognition that the project is part of a complex system with many influencing actors and factors.
Results: Adaptations and differences from the programme research impact evaluation perspective will be discussed, as well as advantages and disadvantages of our approach and initial results. These include engagement of new players in the field, changes in market strategy by other players, further research, etc.
Conclusions: In addition to showing how research impact assessment can be applied prospectively to product development and innovation programmes, the concepts and approach described draw attention to the potential for product development to further other research, shape markets, and spur new opportunities – all long before a product or innovation becomes available for use.
Objectives: In 2013, FHI 360 began work on a donor-funded project with a goal to develop new contraceptives, with a strong focus on global partnerships, to ensure broad access to quality, affordable, and acceptable products for those most in need. Our M&E approach focuses not only on our own pipeline of product development, but also on expanding and facilitating the field. The M&E approach, which was adapted from outcome mapping, will be described.
Methods: Key elements of the approach are: 1) focus on the outcomes, influences, and changes that are not under the direct control of the project but to which the project can contribute; 2) reflection on and inclusion of what might be possible to achieve (i.e. what would be ideal and visionary, not just realistic); and, 3) recognition that the project is part of a complex system with many influencing actors and factors.
Results: Adaptations and differences from the programme research impact evaluation perspective will be discussed, as well as advantages and disadvantages of our approach and initial results. These include engagement of new players in the field, changes in market strategy by other players, further research, etc.
Conclusions: In addition to showing how research impact assessment can be applied prospectively to product development and innovation programmes, the concepts and approach described draw attention to the potential for product development to further other research, shape markets, and spur new opportunities – all long before a product or innovation becomes available for use.