Evaluation of demographic data for development project

Mid-term external evaluation covers the period through 6/85 and is based on document review, site visits, and interviews with Westinghouse Health Systems (WHS), A.I.D., and LDC personnel. The small WHS project staff has performed well and targets are being met or exceeded in all areas save that of population reports: 13 countries, plus the Sahel Institute, have received TA visits (total of 33 trips); microcomputer systems have been installed in 7 countries, and related training and software supplied; 4 comprehensive population/FP data files have been developed; 76 requests for special tabulations and basic information have been filled; and 18 policy briefs have been prepared. The volume of requests for TA and microcomputers has been far greater than expected. In response, WHS has been very resourceful in stretching funds as far as possible. TA recipients and Missions have been uniformly pleased with results, and WHS staff are viewed as both competent and easy to work with. Adapted microcomputer systems have been expertly installed, carefully planned, and adequately tested. Problems over responsibility for computer maintenance, not unusual in such projects, have been resolved in each instance. However, the demographic analysis program manual produced by WHS needs to be simplified and there is a need for Spanish-language documentation and training materials (e.g., lesson plans). Also, insufficient time has been given to follow-up training. While the data files prepared are useful for a variety of audiences, requests for data (especially requests requiring data analysis) take up considerable staff time, and there is a question as to whether requests from non-AID personnel should be discouraged. Also, inadequate facilities and personnel shortages at the A.I.D. computer center constrain the efficient use of the files. Preparation and dissemination of population reports are far behind schedule and of those planned, only two - on natural FP and on microcomputer applications - are of importance to the project and should be completed. Generally, WHS should focus instead on responding to TA requests.