Engineers Without Borders UK MEAL Framework and Impact Evaluation
How we supported Engineers without Borders UK to develop a framework for measuring the impact of their strategy for systems change
Engineers Without Borders UK is part of a global movement of over 30 Engineers Without Borders organisations united in the belief in engineering as a catalyst for positive change. Engineers Without Borders UK are leading efforts to put global responsibility at the heart of how engineering is taught and practiced. Through education, sector influence, and partnerships, they aim to equip the engineering sector to meet the needs of both people and the planet.
Engineers Without Borders UK wanted to measure, improve and communicate the impact of its new strategy, including its flagship Engineering for People Design Challenge. Each year this international programme introduces tens of thousands of higher education students to the principles and practice of globally responsible engineering. Firstly, we helped Engineers Without Borders UK to develop a framework for monitoring and evaluating its strategy, and then delivered a comprehensive independent Impact Evaluation of the Engineering for People Design Challenge.
The Challenge
Engineers Without Borders UK sought a partner who could:
- Develop a clear, practical Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Framework that reflects their strategic goals.
- Build internal capacity and confidence to use the framework and supporting tools across their team.
- Produce an independent, credible impact report to demonstrate the Engineering for People Design Challenge outcomes and value to funders, partners, and potential adopters.
“We needed a credible evidence base for funders and partners about our impact, to help drive forward our strategic goals.“
DR JONATHAN TRUSLOVE
Education and Skills Lead
Engineers Without Borders UK
The Solution
1. Creating a Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Framework and Guide to measure progress towards their strategy
We designed a bespoke MEAL Framework that aligns with Engineers Without Borders UK’s 2021–2030 strategy. This included:
- A set of practical outcomes and indicators to track progress towards inspiring and upskilling engineers in globally responsible engineering, and driving change within industry.
- A tailored MEAL Guide, providing clear instructions and templates to support data collection, analysis and reflection.
2. Delivering an independent Impact Evaluation
The following year, we were commissioned to evaluate the reach, outcomes and long-term impact of the Engineering for People Design Challenge, where we:
- Analysed survey responses from almost 1,500 students.
- Conducted focus groups with 21 educators and 28 interviews with students, educators, partners and industry representatives.
Produced a professionally designed Impact Report that told the story of the programme’s difference, see here.
The Result
- Strategic alignment: The MEAL Framework has helped the organisation “connect the dots between the work we do and the difference we make,” according to Dr Jonathan Truslove, Education and Skills Lead, and has helped to embed a culture of evidence and learning.
- Enhanced credibility: The independent Impact Report has strengthened Engineers Without Borders UK’s voice at conferences and in strategic communications, providing a credible evidence base that resonates with funders, academic and strategic partners.
- Programme growth: The report has supported the Design Challenge’s expansion, helping the team engage new universities by demonstrating the competencies students develop and the programme’s long-term value.
“The Impact Report shows the long-term impact on students’ skills and career pathways. It has been a beneficial springboard, helping expand the programme by supporting conversations with universities about adopting it in new territories, whilst providing a strong evidence base of impact for our funders and partners.”
DR JONATHAN TRUSLOVE
Education and Skills Lead
Engineers Without Borders UK