What is the purpose of ex post evaluation in a project?

The purpose of ex post evaluation is to assess whether an intervention was justified and effective. This process involves reviewing a project's outcomes after its completion to analyze what worked, what didn't, and why. It aims to provide insights into the success of the project against its objectives, thereby helping stakeholders understand the actual impact it had and whether the resources utilized led to the intended results.

By conducting an ex post evaluation, project managers and stakeholders can glean valuable lessons that can inform future projects, improve decision-making, and enhance the overall quality of project planning and execution. It ultimately supports accountability and informs best practices moving forward, making it a crucial step in effective project management.