Participatory monitoring

Monitoring traditionally referred to checking how projects are being implemented and resources used. Routine data systems have been set up for this. At best this information is used to influence operational changes and to direct maintenance and purchase. At worst, information from monitoring has simply been ignored.

Beginning in the 1980s, the focus of monitoring in the water sector began to shift toward the assessment of 'functioning' and 'utilisation' of water and sanitation services. Monitoring began to cover not only measures of inputs but also measures of 'lower-order outputs' (for example, construction) and measures of 'higher-order outputs' (for example, the sustained use of services and behavioural change).

Another change has been the recognition that monitoring can serve more than the decision-making needs of a small management group. More partners can be brought into the process of using the monitoring results. This would mean, for example, feeding the results about the functioning water points back to the lowest level that takes immediate action.

In water and sanitation programmes it is important to define clearly certain key variables that can be used to measure efficiency and effectiveness. There are many possible issues for which indicators can be developed related to planning and design, community organisation, training, involvement of men and women, hygiene practices, water quality, functioning, use, cost sharing and cost recovery. It is best to define variables and indicators in partnership between all stakeholders, to ensure that the right issues are being monitored.

Such practical approaches to monitoring, which involve stakeholders, can offer several benefits. These have been demonstrated in various projects and include: reducing per capita costs and ensuring financial sustainability; better service levels, including repairs; improving access for groups in greatest need; improved use and hygiene; helping to ensure greater use of safe water.