Monitoring and Evaluation in Municipal Planning: Considering the Realities

Abstract

If monitoring and evaluation are recognized parts of the planning canon, why are they overlooked and underused? This article attempts to answer this question by exploring the state of monitoring and evaluation practice and the key factors that contribute to or impede monitoring and evaluation activities in municipal planning departments. The findings of a study of evaluation practice in regional planning departments in Ontario, Canada, are reported. The study examined how the realities of organizational culture and competing demands for limited resources, among many other factors, affect the potential for monitoring and evaluation practice. The article concludes that, in principle, monitoring and evaluation would enhance municipal planning activities. However, there are significant obstacles that must be addressed for them to be implemented effectively. The findings should interest planners who are considering introducing monitoring and evaluation processes in municipal planning departments.