Initiating MODE (Applicants and IPs)

Whether you’re applying to an ECA solicitation or looking to leverage the MODE Framework at Post, this page summarizes the process for initiating use of the MODE Framework. All documents referenced in ECA's solicitation language can be found here. The MELI Unit created the MODE Framework to capture data from a variety of audiences (including participants, alumni, and host communities), but ECA implementing partners are only responsible for collecting and reporting on participant data as part of the MODE requirements.

Incorporating MODE

The MODE implementation process starts with a conversation between the MELI Unit and ECA Program Offices to determine which indicators best fit a given program. For the majority of programs, the MODE Framework is operationalized through institutional grants awarded to implementing partners.

For ECA programs that are not implemented through a grant, the MELI Unit works with the program team to develop an appropriate implementation strategy. Embassies interested in using MODE Framework survey questions for their audiences are welcome to review the core documents and reach out to the MELI Unit with questions.

Solicitation Process

Each solicitation includes a list of MODE indicators (as well as objectives and sub-objectives) that are applicable for that program along with relevant guidance so applicants understand the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) and reporting requirements that will be required upon award.

The solicitation language also details the proposal submission requirements that include:

• A Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). A PMP serves as the primary reference document for performance monitoring. The PMP outlines how an applicant will track progress towards the proposed program’s goals and objectives through indicators and corresponding data collection questions. The MELI Unit provides a PMP template that can be populated with the standard MODE Framework indicators outlined in the award. Applicants are not required to use the ECA-provided PMP, though they are strongly encouraged to do so as all content present in the PMP should be included in any alternative format the applicant submits. If you have questions about how to read or fill out the PMP, please watch our webinar here.
• An M&E Narrative section. Narratives outline how applicants intend to measure the indicators outlined in the PMP. The narrative should explain the resources, mechanisms, and data analysis and reporting procedures the applicant possesses to conduct the required performance monitoring, while also demonstrating the applicant’s dedication to utilizing performance monitoring data through planned learning mechanisms and feedback loops.
  Please note that the MODE Framework captures data on a variety of audiences, but ECA implementing partners are only responsible for collecting and reporting on data collected from participants as part of the MODE Framework requirements. In some instances, implementing partners may be required to collect additional data outside of the MODE Framework. Please read the solicitation carefully to understand all requirements.

MODE Setup

The Bureau's official knowledge management system, State Assistance Management System Domestic (SAMS-D), includes a Results Performance Monitoring (RPM) module, which is the system of record for reporting on MODE indicators. As part of the award process, prospective award recipients are responsible for reviewing and approving the performance monitoring content in SAMS-D RPM. All indicators are entered, tracked, and reported through this module. The MELI Unit has created a training video to explain the SAMS-D RPM process.

Prospective award recipients should plan to: review indicators, enter targets (if not submitted as part of the PMP; this webinar explains how to create targets), and approve the monitoring plan through the SAMS-D RPM module. For more information about how the SAMS-D RPM module is set up, please see the MODE Process Guide and FAQs for Implementing Partners document.