The MELI Unit focuses on bringing together multiple sources of data to measure the full impact of our programming. Through implementing partners and internal data collection efforts, ECA collects data at multiple stages during a program’s lifecycle. ECA’s primary means of collecting monitoring data is through the Monitoring Data for ECA (MODE) Framework.

Introduction to the MODE Framework

The MODE Framework is the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ standardized, Bureau-wide results framework. The MODE Framework features a common set of goals, objectives, and indicators across ECA programs that help measure and demonstrate the collective impact of ECA’s efforts. The MODE Framework objectives align with higher level strategies from ECA’s Functional Bureau Strategy (FBS) to the National Security Strategy, while each performance indicator has corresponding data collection questions which facilitate uniform data collection, validity, and reliability. Designed to track program performance and the direction, pace, and magnitude of change for ECA programs, the MODE Framework strengthens the Bureau’s feedback mechanisms and supports more effective programming.

The MELI Unit worked closely and collaboratively with ECA program teams, senior leadership, implementing partners, regional Bureaus, and select Embassies to develop the MODE Framework to ensure it reflects the Bureau’s data needs. The MODE Framework allows ECA to standardize and utilize its data in the following ways:

Assess data and performance metrics to enhance program performance;
Inform strategic planning activities at the Bureau, division, and individual program levels;
Supplement the information ECA Program Officers receive from implementing partners and program participants to provide a comprehensive view of programmatic activities;
Respond quickly and reliably to ad-hoc requests from Congress, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and internal Department of State stakeholders.
The MELI Unit has developed a set of core documents that explain the MODE Framework in more detail and support stakeholders in data collection. In addition, the MELI Unit has created several web pages that walk users through implementing MODE – from selecting which indicators to measure and responding to solicitations, through data collection, and reporting back to ECA.

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