Evaluation of Norad’s use of knowledge in portfolio management

Abstract

A few years ago, Norad published its strategy towards 2030 and was reorganised to better fit its responsibility for managing an increasing share of Norwegian development aid. The strategy stressed the importance of using knowledge and other insights to ensure effective and efficient management of funds. The purpose of this evaluation, carried out by Itad and CMI, is to provide evaluative evidence about the extent to which the approach to the use of knowledge is likely to improve the quality of Norad’s portfolio management and, ultimately, contribute to better development results. The evaluation is intented be a tool for practical lessons and learning. The evaluation has three objectives:

Describe the current guidelines, set-up and practices in relation to knowledge-based portfolio management. Identify strengths and weaknesses in the existing set-up for and practice of knowledge-based portfolio management. Provide actionable recommendations that support further improvements in Norad’s approach to and use of knowledge in portfolio management.