Capacity Development: Measuring Capacity (UNDP, 2010)

Executive Summary

The framework for measuring change in capacity presented in this paper captures capacity at two levels: at one level are capacities that enable an institution to perform effectively and efficiently, repeat good performance over time, and manage change and shocks as they come. Change in capacities at this level is reflected in outcomes. At another level are drivers of capacity, or levers of change: institutional arrangements and incentives; strategic leadership; the knowledge and skills of human resources; and public interface or accountability mechanisms. The results of activities at this level are reflected in outputs. For example, measurement of a health system’s capacity could include a national university system’s ability to produce top-notch health professionals (outcome), and by the existence of an education curriculum that addresses the specific health needs of the country (output).

Capacity Development: Measuring Capacity, Editor: Kanni Wignaraja, kanni.wignaraja@undp.org