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| Title | Using Surveys Effectively |
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| Author | Imp-Act Program |
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| Content Language | English (en) |
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| Document Type | Guideline |
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| Date Of Publication | 2005 |
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| Description | This Practice Note highlights that Impact Assessment surveys are questionnaire-based surveys that allow microfinance institutions (MFIs) to produce statistically valid information on the changes occurring in the lives of their clients and to assess whether these changes can be associated with their participation in the programme.
Many MFIs need to provide statistical evidence to external audiences, such as donors, investors and boards, showing that their programmes are having an impact on the lives of their clients. Others may wish to find out the patterns and direction of these changes, to help them make decisions. Impact surveys can provide general statistical data about these changes when they are carefully conducted.
The authors suggest that as well as generating information on impact, impact surveys can also produce data on who the clients are, and what they like or dislike about the programme. However this type of data can also be obtained from other, cheaper and simpler tools. The authors argue that it is, therefore, important not to undertake impact surveys if these are the main information requirements. Conducting a successful impact survey involves time, money and skills. It is therefore essential to be clear about whether a survey is the right approach to the needs, and to be aware of what is involved and what the potential problems might be, before deciding to conduct one.
This Note aims to help readers understand what an impact survey involves, to decide whether they have sufficient resources to conduct one, and to consider how best to manage external support if needed. It outlines the key issues in planning, designing and implementing a survey. The Note also includes practical examples from a number of Imp-Act partner MFIs. |
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| Publisher | Institute of Development Studies |
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| Number of Pages | 8 |
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| Edition | Practice Notes |
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| ISSN | 1740-4711 |
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| Series ID | 2005 |
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| Keywords | EVALUACION DE IMPACTO, MISION, INSTITUCIONES DE MICROFINANZAS, SOSTENIBILIDAD, IMPACTO SOCIAL, IMPACTO ECONOMICO, RESEARCH METHODS, MICROFINANCE, MISSION, SOCIAL PERFORMANCE MONITORING |
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using surveys effectively (EN)
