Early-Stage Evaluation of the Multiphase Programmatic Approach

The World Bank introduced the multiphase programmatic approach (MPA) in 2017 as a means of structuring a long, large, or complex engagement as a set of shorter linked projects or phases. This engagement was intended to take either a vertical form within a single country, typically over 8–10 years, or a horizontal form across several countries at the same time (or several states within a country). The motivation behind the MPA was to provide continuity of engagement, allow more flexibility in responses to changed circumstances, encourage adaptive learning, and support stepwise progress toward a long-term development objective. This evaluation assesses the performance of the approach against these expectations. Specifically, the evaluation examines whether the design and early implementation of the MPA has supported the objectives on which the approach’s effectiveness depends: (i) Coherence. A coherent program fits within the broader program at the level of the country, sector, and institution. The MPA is expected to be more coherent than its alternatives because it was intended to leverage external partnerships and internal collaboration more effectively. (ii) Continuity. This refers to the MPA’s ability to provide stable, long-term support. The vertical MPA supports continuity better than its alternatives because of its programmatic structure and the provision for overlapping phases. (iii0 Learning. Although all operations should embed knowledge, the MPA requires an explicit learning plan, with specificity on implementation arrangements and how the knowledge is to be used. (iv) Adaptation. This refers to the ability of the MPA to adjust the content and timing of its phases in response to new information, evolving priorities, and changing context due to its larger number of preset points for stocktaking than would be present in a single operation. (v) The evaluation highlights [areas in which MPA’s effectiveness might be strengthened, while noting that the portfolio is for the most part at an early stage of implementation, and all programs are still active.