Beyond Numbers: Why Qualitative Evidence Matters in Evaluation from Local to Global
Panel Discussion | Online
-
Organized by:
HubForge: Global Impact Network
- In partnership with: ooloi-labs
About the Event
Abstract: In a world driven by data, evaluation systems often prioritize quantitative metrics—percentages, indicators, and statistical trends. But these numbers tell only part of the story. According to a 2023 OECD report, over 70% of global development evaluations still rely predominantly on quantitative data, despite evidence that complex challenges like climate adaptation, gender inequality, and poverty reduction require a de eper, more contextual understanding.
Qualitative evidence—gathered through participatory research, storytelling, and community-led data collection—provides essential insights into how communities experience and adapt to change. A 2022 World Bank study found that programs using mixed-method evaluations (quantitative + qualitative) were 40% more likely to identify systemic barriers and improve long-term outcomes. Moreover, over 60% of grassroots organizations in India report that qualitative evidence has been critical in shaping more inclusive and effective policies.
This session will emphasize the growing need to balance numbers with narratives by exploring:
The Risks of Incomplete Data: Why relying solely on quantitative indicators can lead to misleading conclusions and ineffective interventions.
The Power of Qualitative Insights: How capturing lived experiences and local knowledge improves decision-making and program impact.
Real-World Success Stories: Case studies where qualitative evidence has strengthened evaluations and driven meaningful change.
Qualitative evidence—gathered through participatory research, storytelling, and community-led data collection—provides essential insights into how communities experience and adapt to change. A 2022 World Bank study found that programs using mixed-method evaluations (quantitative + qualitative) were 40% more likely to identify systemic barriers and improve long-term outcomes. Moreover, over 60% of grassroots organizations in India report that qualitative evidence has been critical in shaping more inclusive and effective policies.
This session will emphasize the growing need to balance numbers with narratives by exploring:
The Risks of Incomplete Data: Why relying solely on quantitative indicators can lead to misleading conclusions and ineffective interventions.
The Power of Qualitative Insights: How capturing lived experiences and local knowledge improves decision-making and program impact.
Real-World Success Stories: Case studies where qualitative evidence has strengthened evaluations and driven meaningful change.
Speakers
| Name | Title | Biography |
|---|---|---|
| Akshay Roongta | Co-Founder and Partner at Ooloi Labs | Co-founder of Ooloi Labs & Open Knowledge Framework, turning stories into actionable insights. 10+ years across WASH, health & education, blending systems thinking with participatory research to help teams unlock the power of lived experiences for lasting change. |
| Yashna Jhamb | Co-founder of Ooloi Labs & Open Knowledge Framework | Co-founder of Ooloi Labs & Open Knowledge Framework, transforming qualitative data into actionable insights. Acumen Fellow working across health, education & climate, advocating for ethical tech that amplifies overlooked voices and drives equity-centered change.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses. |