DARA has in-depth knowledge in contexts of protracted emergencies and disasters. We promote learning and accountability through practical guidance. At a strategic level, we provide orientation to policy makers and practitioners for the benefit of the humanitarian system as a whole.

To help our clients improve their performance and the quality of humanitarian aid, DARA offers a wide range of services:

Evaluations

Evaluations allow us to assess our actions, learn lessons and optimise our efforts in order to improve future results. Since its creation in 2003, DARA has designed and conducted evaluations in more than 60 countries. Our evaluations guide humanitarian aid policies and interventions, and are designed to improve results and increase impact. We have carried out participatory, results-oriented and utilisation-focused evaluations for a variety of key humanitarian actors, including donor governments, United Nations and major international humanitarian organisations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross.

DARA is one of the leading organisations in Real-Time,  Impact, System-wide, Programme and Thematic and Sector evaluations.

All evaluations are carried out and delivered in accordance with international evaluation standards, such as Active Learning Network for Accountability and Performance in Humanitarian Action (ALNAP) and The United Nations Evaluation Group (UNEG).

Our Experts

DARA’s team is composed of highly skilled professionals with significant experience working in the humanitarian sector, as well as operating in emergencies and difficult post-conflict environments. DARA has in-house researchers and evaluators with experience in the study and assessment of humanitarian interventions. Aside from the staffed personnel, DARA has senior evaluators associated with the organisation.

We also collaborate with a close network of renowned senior experts in multidisciplinary fields: humanitarian response, complex emergencies, development policies, education, health, nutrition, food security and livelihoods, safety nets, human security, gender, agriculture, shelter, protection, LRRD, risk reduction and climate change mitigation.

Technical Assistance

DARA has a solid track record in providing technical assistance to key humanitarian actors. We provide analysis, results frameworks and senior management workshops to improve policy and performance. Our most recent work includes: Quality and Accountability Initiatives study and  technical assistance to the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) in its EU Presidency commitment after the Haiti earthquake.

Quantitative Analysis

DARA’s pool of experts have strong quantitative experience in evaluations using a variety of tools and methods. They have expertise in econometrics methods and solid knowledge of different statistical packages. Our experts are versed in data modeling, design and construction of quantitative indicators, overseeing fieldwork, data collection and entry activities, quantifying qualitative data, creating statistical reports, and reporting and disseminating evaluation results. They also have experience in the design and pilot of measurement scales, and the design, implementation and analysis of surveys.