Final evaluation report : final performance evaluation of the integrated financial management system (IFMS) activity

This final performance evaluation focused on Phase V of the activity, implemented by Chemonics International from September 2014 to March 2018. To answer three evaluation questions (EQs) regarding activity effectiveness (EQ 1), utilization (EQ 2), and sustainability (EQ 3), the evaluation team conducted a document review, 20 key informant interviews, 8 group interviews, and site observations including 12 diagnostics. For EQ 1, the evaluation concluded that infrastructure and systems implementation remain ongoing. Because the infrastructure is incomplete, aspects of the systems are not being used by intended beneficiaries. The activity conducted several trainings, but participants have not had opportunities to apply acquired skills. Connectivity and electricity issues hindered IFMS, as did lack of buy-in from GOH leadership. For EQ 2, GOH is using IFMS hardware and infrastructure, but not using some of the software applications. Financial reporting within the GOH remains the same as before this phase, real-time data exchange is not occurring, and gains to improve fiscal transparency were minimal. For EQ 3, the IFMS intranet and Network Operating Center were the activity"s most sustainable aspects, whereas non-infrastructure investments are currently less sustainable. More training and coaching on the new systems are required. The activity did not have a sustainability plan or exit strategy in place at the time of the evaluation. (Author abstract)