The provided text outlines the second edition of the "Glossary of Key Terms in Evaluation and Results-Based Management for Sustainable Development." This publication, published under the responsibility of the Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), aims to provide conceptual clarity for those involved in results-based management, monitoring, and evaluation, which ultimately supports sustainable development through learning and accountability.
The focus of the glossary is on specific terms related to results monitoring, management, data collection, analysis, and evaluation. The glossary does not redefine related or general concepts like development or human rights since they are defined elsewhere and commonly understood. Each definition includes notes that explain key concepts and cross-references to related terms or synonyms. The terms are organized alphabetically in English, with a table of contents grouping them by theme.
The second edition of the glossary reflects advancements and changes over the past 20 years, incorporating new thinking from the OECD's Development Assistance Committee (DAC) Results Community and updating definitions with newly introduced terms that are now widely used. It also takes into account the extensive work done by the DAC Network on Development Evaluation to refine the definitions of evaluation criteria. The glossary's content is based on the highest considerations of clarity and conciseness, aiming to facilitate compromise among partners and avoid imposing specific approaches or vocabulary.
This publication is useful for training and practical work in both the public and private sectors, covering activities such as project or policy design, monitoring, program implementation, management, and various types of evaluations. The glossary's definitions are intended to be broadly applicable, reflecting their usage across different actors, including impacted communities using monitoring and evaluation to hold decision-makers accountable.
The glossary was developed with a commitment to clarity, conciseness, and collaboration, ensuring that it serves as a valuable resource for professionals and stakeholders working towards sustainable development.