An indicator is a quantitative measure or qualitative observation used to describe change. One must follow the SMART criterion to define indicators – they must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound.
Indicators are linked to the objectives set in a Program Logframe to help measure the success and achievement of the defined objectives. They are usually linked to different Results Framework levels. Indicators depict the extent to which a project is accomplishing its planned inputs, outputs, outcomes and goals. For an indicator to measure change, it must have:
- Baseline: a measure used to benchmark the current state of an indicator so that the recorded results can be appropriately calculated
- Target: the improvement or achievement expected to take place while the project is being implemented