International Development and Programs (Development Work) - International Development and Programs (Development Work)

To enable USAID staff to manage for results and produce credible reporting, performance data should meet data quality standards, including standards for reliability and precision (i.e., data should be sufficiently precise) to present a fair picture of performance, according to ADS 203.3.5.1.

Moreover, ADS 203.3.5.2 requires that missions perform data quality assessments and take steps to ensure that submitted data are of reasonable quality and adequately supported. The ADS further states that when missions conduct quality assessments of data from secondary sources (including implementing partners, government counterparts, and international agencies), the mission should focus the assessment on the apparent accuracy and consistency of the data.

According to the ADS, missions should consider visiting a broad range of sites to assess whether reports accurately reflect conditions and events in the field. When a mission provides technical assistance to a government ministry to improve data collection and analysis, the mission may be in a good position to assess the quality of the data. Finally, according to ADS 203.3.2.2, USAID missions should report information candidly and communicate any limitations in data quality so that achievements can be honestly assessed.

General Recommendations

• Require contractors to develop and implement a written plan that includes procedures for monitoring subgrantees and for confirming that results are accurate and supported by source documentation.

• Provide and document training and administrative guidance to staff n preparing support documentation that requires the submission of accurate, well-documented results and (2) report any limitations on data quality when reporting results from counterparts.

Source: AUDIT REPORT NO. 1-504-10-003-P DECEMBER 29, 2009

The recommendations are derived from audit reports of the Office of the Inspector General. The source refers to the audit report, which is available on this site as part of the Audit Database Project: an educational tool for compliance with USAID regulations.  Please see the disclaimer of this site before using recommendations.