How to build an effective data model design
This article looks into the process of designing a data model, drawing an analogy to creating a blueprint for a house to help understand the steps involved in data modelling.
News and updates
What’s new in ActivityInfo
Explore our latest articles and guides.
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A guide to data modelling: Key principles and design considerations
In this article, we look at the introduction to data modelling, key considerations for data model design, and the fundamental principles and frameworks.
ActivityInfo as an M&E system for USAID programs
Everything you need to know to start using ActivityInfo in your USAID programs and proposals.
How ActivityInfo improves REDD+ reporting and national forest monitoring with transparent, evidence-based data monitoring for carbon credit projects
How a centralized information management system can improve data monitoring in carbon credit projects.
How is social protection connected to Cash and Voucher Assistance
This article discusses strategies, benefits, and key factors for effectively integrating CVA with social protection programs.
Introduction to social protection
The article highlights the importance of social protection, detailing its types and emphasizes the need for mature systems to effectively respond to crises and coordinate with humanitarian efforts.
Moving away from siloed systems with relational databases for monitoring and evaluation
How can a relational database help you tackle fragmented information systems?
A quick introduction to Theory of Change for M&E practitioners
Wondering what Theory of Change is? Read this quick introduction.
Explore the ActivityInfo revamped Documentation site
Thematic sections, more resource types, feedback and more
Discover a round of new ActivityInfo features - Webhooks for automations, Draft records, Deduplication and many more
Webhooks for automations, draft records, deduplication, translations and many more
Calculating ActivityInfo’s ROI for your organization
Calculate the Return on Investment or Impact for your organization when choosing ActivityInfo.
Leveraging the OECD/DAC criteria for impact evaluation; from principles to practice
In this article, we look at the OECD/DAC criteria for impact evaluation, highlighting some principles and put it into practice.
Introduction to the role of the OECD/DAC criteria in impact evaluation
In this article, we look at the role of the OECD/DAC criteria in impact evaluation and highlight the challenges.
Ukraine refugee response monitoring in UNICEF Romania - meeting the challenges in information management
Explore the innovative ways in which UNICEF in Romania leveraged the ActivityInfo platform for the Ukraine refugee response monitoring.
A year of ActivityInfo improvements with ACDI/VOCA
Explore all the new functionalities in the platform developed with the support of ACDI/VOCA.
Using R in the humanitarian sector: the Response monitoring use case
Explore the use of R and the ActivityInfo R package in response monitoring.
Heartland Alliance International is serving varying stakeholder needs with a new centralized MIS approach
From case management and country projects monitoring to strategic progress measurement and improved HQ collaboration, Heartland Alliance International systematizes data management to improve data quality and timeliness through a data management process
Considering alternatives - Should I use KoboToolbox or ActivityInfo
We created a guide to help you understand in which case each tool is a better fit and select the best alternative.
Default field values for advanced guidance and control in data entry
Learn about default field values and the Read only property, developed with the support of ACDI/VOCA.
Towards a new paradigm for MEAL for health data
Medicos del Mundo redefines case management, surveys and project tracking leveraging the ActivityInfo mobile app and relational database platform
Building a monitoring system for Cash Based Interventions: sample case study and database template
In this article, we look at building a monitoring system for cash based interventions using a sample case study and a database template in ActivityInfo.
Monitoring and Evaluation for Cash Based Interventions
In this article, we look at building a M&E system for Cash Based Interventions.
Information management for election monitoring and observation
In this article, we discuss elections monitoring and observation and the importance of an information system.
Introduction to Cash Based Interventions for M&E professionals
In this article, we introduce the topic of Cash Based Interventions (CBIs), look at the most common types of Cash Based Interventions and where the opportunities and challenges lie for M&E professionals.
Four reasons to implement an information management system for your M&E activities right now
In this article, we present four reasons why it is critical to implement an information management system for your Monitoring and Evaluation activities right away.
Enhanced data analysis features for complex indicator calculations
Learn about a series of improvements and new features for complex indicator calculations, developed with the support and contribution of ACDI/VOCA.
Beyond data collection - Light for the World goes a step further with an information system that supports learning and adapting and monitors systems change at the global level
Explore how Light for the World approaches learning and adapting, monitoring systems change at the global level and more with ActivityInfo.
Getting Started with ActivityInfo - Introductory sessions
Learn more about database design, analyzing data, user management and managing your ActivityInfo implementation.
Updated user management functionalities - Powerful roles with resources, parameters, conditions and more
An updated approach to user management to meet the diverse needs of intricate team structures and data protection requirements in a simpler and faster way.
New features for working with reference data for case management, M&E and more
We are excited to announce that with the support and contribution of ACDI/VOCA, we have developed new functionality for reference data.
Database and Form design in ActivityInfo
Work with reference data, and design forms and databases for improved data quality
Data analysis and reports in ActivityInfo
Learn more about data analysis and creating reports, dashboards and more in ActivityInfo.
Working with Automations, the ActivityInfo API, Power BI, and R
Learn more about automations, integrations with external tools, the use of R language and the ActivityInfo API.
Working with formulas for data quality
Learn how to use formulas, Regular expressions and more for advanced control over your data
Best practices for data visualization in Monitoring and Evaluation
In this article, we present different aspects and practices for effective data visualization in Monitoring and Evaluation.
Supporting the Response in Ukraine and the region: ActivityInfo is now available in Slovak, Romanian, Ukrainian, Polish and Hungarian
In the Ukraine situation, ActivityInfo is supporting the IM needs of key UN and NGO actors both inside and outside the country, recently adding support for Ukrainian, Romanian, Hungarian, Polish and Slovak.
From global indicators monitoring to strategic evaluation and learning - how a common MIS platform is enabling IREX’s global MEL strategy
Program-specific indicator data for cross-program learning and meeting global MEL needs with ActivityInfo as a common MIS platform.
Evaluation in humanitarian assistance
Learn more about the steps involved in evaluation in humanitarian assistance including an introduction, planning and design and implementation.
Survey design and implementation
Get started with developing questionnaires and designing tools and methods for data collection, monitoring and analyzing results for surveys
A guide for device security in the field
In this article, we present recommendations by Arculus Cyber Security for information security and more specifically on device security in the field.
A guide for rolling out ActivityInfo in 4 steps
In this article, we present 4 steps along with recommended key tasks to help you roll out ActivityInfo or any other new system in your organization.
A 6-step guide to Data Quality Assessments (DQAs)
A guide to DQA, a systematic process to assess the strengths and weaknesses of a data set, and to inform users of the ‘health’ of data.
The ActivityInfo team achieves ISO 27001 certification
The ActivityInfo team has always considered information security a core element of its' mission. This year we formalized this approach by undergoing an external audit and achieving the ISO 27001 certification.
How ActivityInfo contributes to decreasing the environmental impact of information management
ActivityInfo has always been striving to minimize redundant effort in data management and data collection using environmentally-friendly technologies.
A complete guide for a project level M&E database
In this guide, we take a look at the concept of a project-level database to simplify your monitoring and evaluation efforts.
A quick guide on indicator meta-data
Why is indicator meta-data important and which critical elements should be included in the Indicator Reference Sheet?
Managing change during digital transformation in M&E teams
During the gLOCAL Evaluation Week 2022, M&E experts shared their insights on navigating change management while introducing new digital technologies into their organizations.
Case management: ActivityInfo as a protection information management system
In this blog post, we explore the use of ActivityInfo as an information management system for case management and referral. We take a look at the features used in case management and examples from the field and we compare it with open-source and on-premise solutions.
4 tips for effective partner capacity development when implementing an M&E system for a large-scale complex program
4 tips to ensure effective partner capacity development for working with M&E systems of large-scale programs.
What do donors expect from a project level M&E system?
Explore the key components of a successful Monitoring and Evaluation system and how these enhance data quality for programme level indicators.
Why choose off-the-shelf software for your humanitarian Information Management workflow
When it comes to choosing an Information Management system for humanitarian operation, off-the-shelf software such as ActivityInfo has proven to be lower-risk and more sustainable solution, in comparison to custom development software and open-source tools.
Choosing methods and tools for participatory M&E - Reflections and resources
In this article, we are looking at examples of participatory methods and tools for M&E and what we should keep in mind when choosing them. We also consider how participatory M&E can be adapted to virtual settings and link to a variety of resources and toolkits.
7 steps for setting-up a Monitoring & Evaluation system
In this article, independent M&E consultant, Susanne Neymeyer shares 7 key steps for the development of an M&E system and offers a tool to simplify conducting an M&E gap analysis.
34 countries use ActivityInfo to simplify humanitarian coordination; best practices from the biggest deployments
Highlights from the work of information management teams from UNHCR, IOM and UNOCHA. Explore their work on monitoring the Humanitarian Response in Lebanon, Uganda, Libya and in 17 countries working on the Response for Venezuela and get some inspiration for your 2022 response monitoring planning.
A guide for large scale humanitarian coordination: lessons learnt from IM experts across 3 continents
Database structures, information products and lessons learnt from some of the largest deployments of ActivityInfo in humanitarian coordination.
ActivityInfo for Protection, Child Protection and GBV activities case management
Learn how ActivityInfo can support the coordination of case management processes related to the Protection, Child Protection and Gender-Based Violence.
ActivityInfo for Protection, Child Protection and GBV activities reporting monitoring
Learn how ActivityInfo can support the coordination and monitoring of activities related to the Protection, Child Protection and Gender-Based Violence sector/cluster.
ActivityInfo for Rapid Response Mechanisms and emergency response monitoring
Learn how ActivityInfo can support RRMPs and enhance emergency response data management.
ActivityInfo for WASH activities reporting and partners’ coordination
Since its first day, more than 11 years ago, organizations use ActivityInfo to monitor Partner’s presence and response activities, KPIs, 3Ws, 4Ws and 5Ws and many more. In this article, we have gathered resources and tips to help you understand how ActivityInfo supports reporting for the WASH Cluster.
An introduction to participatory monitoring and evaluation: the missing link between inquiry and impact
In this article, we are looking at participatory M&E more closely. We will see how it challenges us to think differently about power, knowledge, and the role of practitioners and affected populations in M&E. We will also consider when we might use participatory approaches in the M&E cycle. We will explore participatory M&E in terms of its benefits and its relationship to human rights, and look at some of the challenges we might face in using participatory approaches.
A beginner’s guide to inclusive monitoring and evaluation: from talking to doing
In this guide, Ms Naomi Falkenburg addresses the concept of inclusive monitoring and evaluation and discusses the main characteristics of an inclusive M&E system. The guide also discusses how ActivityInfo can facilitate inclusive practices in data collection and information management.
To Monitoring and Evaluation professionals who want an effective data collection system but don’t know where to start
In the past, we discussed how ActivityInfo can be used for Monitoring and Evaluation and we took a look at how various features in the system can make the work of the M&E officer easier. In this article, we dive into a more advanced and detailed approach to help you transform your M&E plan into an effective data collection system.
Eight reasons to switch from Excel to web-based partner reporting
Despite being a powerful tool when analyzing data, spreadsheets have not been built to hold large amounts of data. That is why a more robust system designed for this purpose can benefit an organization working on complex data requirements. With this article we take a look at how ActivityInfo can help you tackle information management challenges and spreadsheet nightmare scenarios in 2023.
Multi-partner reporting with UNOCHA Iraq: from standardized forms to an innovative dynamic dashboard
Every year, UNOCHA in Iraq shares the Iraq Humanitarian Dashboard, a dynamic dashboard that presents an overview of the Humanitarian Response in the country. From year to year the Humanitarian Dashboard is evolving using innovative techniques, leveraging the possibilities of the ActivityInfo API. In this article, we take a look at the new developments in the 2020 Iraq Humanitarian Dashboard.
How to motivate partners to work together on a common information management system
Collaborating on a common information management system (MIS) such as ActivityInfo makes it easy to collect data from various different sources and maintain a single, centralized source of truth. This article presents some ideas on how to win the support of other partner organizations and stakeholders so as to start working on a common tool.
Transforming COVID-19 data management in Afghanistan
The fast developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic have created brand-new data management needs worldwide. The amount of data coming in from various sources and the pressure for daily, updated numbers and reports create an additional challenge both for the reporting sides and for the governments that collect these data. In this blog post we explore the adoption of ActivityInfo as a data management platform for monitoring the COVID-19 response in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan as a result of the partnership between the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat Afghanistan (AKAH,A) and the Ministry of Public Health in the country.
ActivityInfo as your Monitoring and Evaluation software
Having a monitoring and evaluation software in place is becoming an important component, if not a prerequisite, for the success of a project or a programme. The work of a monitoring and evaluation officer is simplified when an online system is used to centralize and standardize indicators and data colllection processes. In ActivityInfo, we provide database templates that can be adapted to your needs quickly and easily whether you plan to monitor programmes within your organization or you intend to cooperate with other partner organizations.
Quick, easy and interactive indicators guidance for new staff and partners: the 3RP Guidance Notes by the IMWG in Turkey
In this blog post we take a look at an interactive tool designed by the Information Management Working Group in Turkey which makes partner training and the provision of indicator guidance to new agencies and staff easier and quicker. We spoke with Mr. Levent Eksi, Associate Information Management Officer in UNHCR who explained to us why the IMWG decided to create this tool and how it has improved their work, the partners cooperation and the indicators quality.
Exploratory text mining with the ActivityInfo API; the QualMiner Project for the Emergency Response Plan
The ActivityInfo team participates in the exploratory research project, QualMiner which focuses on the challenge of handling the unstructured information reported by humanitarian organizations for the Emergency Response.
The use of ActivityInfo in the Ebola Response by UNICEF in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
In November 2018, UNICEF in the Democratic Republic of the Congo started using the software for monitoring activities related to the Ebola Response. We spoke with Mr. Ambroise Brou, Information Management Specialist for the Emergency situation in UNICEF DRC and Mr. Patrice Fillon, Information Management Specialist in the Ebola Response in UNICEF DRC who explained to us how ActivityInfo is used today by the organization and in particular in the Ebola Response.
Levels of Analysis in Information Management: how and how much to track
In this blog post we take the next step towards understanding how a successful Information System should work, by asking key questions, taking inspiration from our current users.
Logical Frameworks, Information Management Systems and ActivityInfo
In this blog post we examine what a Logical Framework (LogFrame) is, what an Information System is and what is the role of ActivityInfo in relation to these two.
Best Practices for Developing Internal Training Materials for reporting data in ActivityInfo
Compiling internal training materials for your staff or external partners can give stakeholders the confidence to fully participate in a new system. In this blog post, we have collected a number of great examples on training materials from ActivityInfo users, together with a few tips and tricks from our own team.