Technology for Evaluation in Fragile and Conflict Affected States

This paper is based on an extensive literature review that spanned the fields of technology, peacebuilding, humanitarian, development, and monitoring and evaluation. One of the key gaps identified was how to introduce technology to an experienced evaluator who is also a digital immigrant or refugee. There is plenty of available content about technology and evaluation in fragile states; however, it is rarely framed through the lens of an evaluation.

Several monitoring and evaluation guides offer guidance on using technology to assist with data collection, but do not focus on explaining how to integrate technology beyond data collection and into the rest of the monitoring and evaluation cycle. A portion of the content is also inappropriately pro-technology; it does not sufficiently examine context or consider the pros and cons of using technology when dealing with vulnerable populations.

This paper fills the gap by amalgamating expertise from various fields in order to provide a comprehensive overview of what an evaluator needs to keep in mind when using technology. The literature amalgamation was put through a series of expert reviews from individuals in both the evaluation and technology fields.