Evaluation of the population information program (PIP)

Interim evaluation covers the period ending 10/91. Interviews with users, data from readership surveys, and user reports confirm that PIP products are highly regarded. "Population Reports" and "International Family Planning Perspectives", PIP's two major publications, are described as authoritative, valuable, and highly informative; their timely coverage of FP topics is especially appreciated. Users suggest that the publications, especially "Population Reports", include guidance on ways to extend their local use, e.g., for training purposes. Both publications could have far greater impact if: (1) the budget were increased to allow for wider distribution; (2) they were translated into more languages, such as Arabic, Turkish, Hindi, and some African languages. The POPLINE database has long played a strategic role, and its most recent development, a CD-ROM distributed regularly to 160 sites, has greatly increased and facilitated use of the database. However, the disc is not being properly used at all 160 sites. The sites that are working well have people who have been trained in both the use of information and in CD-ROM technology. This makes the development of a training manual important. Also, some users feel that the database underrepresents the experiences of developing countries. The Informed Choice Task Force presented a set of recommendations to USAID and the FP community in a 1989 report, which included criticisms of the lengthy procedures for informed consent in many countries. To combat this problem, PIP created a slide show for FP associations, service providers, program managers, and policymakers in developing countries. The Population Resources Center, PIP's mechanism for handling requests for information, documents/publications, or online database searches, was given high marks by users but is underused. Its use should be encouraged. Because the FY 1992 obligation will not be allocated until the project is extended or succeeded in 8/92, $600,000 is needed to fund publication and database activities until that time. Given its comprehensive scope and highly respected character, PIP can serve as an intellectual bedrock for USAID population programs in the 1990's. To do this, it -- or its successor -- will have to take a more proactive role in three areas: gathering information; improving coordination among cooperating agencies; and gearing activities more closely to USAID's evolving strategy.