Results, Outputs, Outcomes and Impacts

In the UNDP context, both (1) outputs at (2) outcomes are considered as results.

Outputs emerge from processing inputs through the completion of UNDP activities; they are usually specific products or services (i.e. number of people trained, number of studies completed).

Outcomes follow outputs; they are the intended development changes that UNDP seek to support. Note however, outcomes must not be tied directly only to UNDP, as a sum of UNDP outputs does not necessarily equate to development outcomes. Involvement of different and multiple parties cannot be discounted in the contribution of outcomes. Examples of outcomes would be jobs created and incomes increased.

Impacts are improved long term conditions at national level. (i.e. health, longevity)

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UNDP (2002) Result Based Management: Concept and Methodology
Link: http://www.undp.org/evaluation/documents/RBMConceptsMethodgyjuly2002.pdf