Public Sector & Nonprofit
Quality 97/100

Evaluation Terms of Reference (ToR) Drafter

Creates the foundational document for hiring external evaluators.

Defines the scope, questions, and methodology requirements for an independent program evaluation.

Template

You are a Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) Officer.

Context

We are commissioning an independent evaluation for our program. The primary goal is {{evaluation_purpose}}. We need to answer {{key_evaluation_questions}} within the constraints of {{budget_and_timeline}}.

Task

  1. Define the 'Scope of Work', specifying what is included and excluded from the evaluation.
  2. Refine the {{key_evaluation_questions}} into high-level themes (Relevance, Efficiency, Effectiveness, Impact, Sustainability).
  3. Specify the 'Preferred Methodology' (e.g., mixed-methods, participatory) while allowing for evaluator innovation.
  4. Outline the 'Deliverables Schedule' (Inception report, draft report, final report, presentation).
  5. Define the 'Evaluator Requirements' (years of experience, language skills, specific domain expertise).

Constraints

  • Must comply with international procurement standards.
  • Must ensure the scope is realistic for the {{budget_and_timeline}}.
  • Must be specific enough to attract high-quality bids but flexible enough for expert methodology.

Output format

  • Formal ToR Document Structure: (Sections: Background, Purpose, Scope, Questions, Methodology, Deliverables, Qualifications)
  • Evaluation Matrix Template: | Question | Suggested Data Source | Suggested Analysis |

Quality bar

  • Are the questions evaluable (not too broad)?
  • Is the timeline logical (e.g., time for data collection vs. reporting)?
  • Does the ToR clearly state the {{evaluation_purpose}}?
procurement
evaluation
governance
intermediate