Donors and boards increasingly ask for real-time evidence of progress, while field teams struggle with multiple reporting formats and unreliable numbers. Without a sound digital MEAL system, organisations spend weeks assembling reports, discover errors only at audit or evaluation, and miss chances to adapt programmes while there is still time. Good dashboards are not about colourful charts; they depend on clean data, clear definitions and agreement about who will act on what they show.

This training course takes participants through building that chain. It starts by revisiting the results framework and indicator reference sheets, then moves to data flow mapping, mobile tools and database structure. Participants learn to define data quality standards, run data quality assessments, create validation and cleaning routines, and document their methods. They then design dashboards using Power BI, choosing measures and visuals that match decision needs, and set up learning events such as after-action reviews and adaptive management meetings that use the data.

Each topic is delivered through laboratory exercises on sample project datasets. Teams also design a digital feedback and complaints channel and practise explaining data limitations honestly. By the end, participants hold a prototype system and an implementation plan suited to their own organisation.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Translate a results framework into indicator reference sheets and a data flow map.
• Configure digital data collection and a structured MEAL database.
• Define data quality standards and conduct routine data quality assessments.
• Clean, validate and document data using repeatable methods.
• Build interactive dashboards in Power BI that serve specific decision makers.
• Set up digital feedback and accountability mechanisms with responsible data practice.
• Use evidence in learning reviews to adapt programme strategies.

The course serves professionals responsible for tracking and reporting results, including:

• MEAL officers, coordinators and managers
• Programme and project managers
• Information management and data officers
• Grants, reporting and compliance officers
• Country directors and heads of programmes
• Evaluation consultants and researchers
• Government planning and statistics unit staff
• Donor programme officers who review partner data

Participants leave with:

• A prototype MEAL database linked to a mobile collection form.
• A working Power BI dashboard built from project data.
• A data quality assessment tool and a schedule for using it.
• An indicator reference sheet template with clear definitions.
• A design for a digital feedback and complaints channel.
• An implementation roadmap for digitising MEAL in their organisation.

Delivery is laboratory based, with each concept applied to real project-style data. Participants will use:

• Guided labs in KoboToolbox, Excel and Power BI
• Sample health, livelihoods and education project datasets
• Data quality assessment exercises on deliberately flawed data
• Team design of a feedback mechanism and learning event
• Dashboard showcase and peer critique on the final day

A CPD-accredited Certificate of Completion is presented by Vision Reach Global Consultancy to participants who complete the labs and attend the full programme.