What are the limitations for NGO institutions to recruit an external research team to do program evaluation?

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Recruiting an external research team for program evaluation can come with certain limitations and challenges for NGO institutions. Here are some considerations:
1. Cost implications: Engaging an external research team can be costly. NGOs may need to allocate a significant portion of their budget to cover the expenses associated with hiring the research team, including professional fees, travel costs, and data analysis tools. Limited financial resources may make it difficult for some NGOs to afford the services of an external research team.
2. Time constraints: External research teams may have other ongoing projects and commitments, which can lead to time constraints and potential delays in the evaluation process. Coordinating schedules and ensuring timely completion of the evaluation may require careful planning and communication between the NGO and the research team.
3. Limited understanding of the NGO's context and programs: External research teams may have limited familiarity with the specific context, challenges, and nuances of the NGO's programs. This can require extra effort from the NGO to provide comprehensive background information, contextual details, and access to program documentation. Without a deep understanding of the organization's work, the research team may struggle to capture the full complexity of the program being evaluated.
4. Potential mismatch in expectations: Misalignment between the NGO's expectations and the research team's deliverables can be a challenge. It is crucial to establish clear communication channels, discuss evaluation objectives and scope, and define the expected outcomes from the evaluation process. Both parties should have a shared understanding of the evaluation's purpose, timeline, and deliverables to avoid misunderstandings and ensure mutual satisfaction.