Learning Lessons: Connecting the Dots for Greater Development Impact

Abstract

The development patterns of nations feature multiple dots, each with distinct histories, geographies, and characteristics. Connecting these dots, according to evaluation findings, is key to getting good results from various interventions. The stakes in strengthening these links are high. The proportion of the population living in poverty in the Asia and Pacific region has come down sharply over the past decade—faster than anywhere else in the world. Yet, because populations have surged, the absolute numbers living on less than $2 a day is still 1.6 billion people in the region, and has actually increased in some countries. Add to this picture the rise in the incidence and severity of economic and natural crises, and the stress on Asia’s poor becomes more acute. That is why getting stronger results from development efforts is a top priority. But what differentiates strong outcomes from weak ones? Evaluative evidence points to the vital role links play in the patterns of development. These involve projects and programs in different areas, at different times, and the work of different players. Building synergies across areas, across times, and across players seems key to improving the development effectiveness of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and other development practitioners and policymakers.