M and E is an essential part of all the stages of a project cycle from initiation,Planning,Execution,Monitoring and Closure
1.At the initiation stage use of data from previous programs helps in identification of gaps for the proposed program
the development of a logframe with clear inputs, outputs ,outcomes and goals will come in handy in monitoring all program activities
2.At Planning stage there is need for baseline data (an M and E role) that will help us evaluate the project at the different stages (midterm and endterm).
3.At the execution stage of a program implementation monitoring will be incoorporated -here we look at targets against achievements ,proper use of resources and also monitoring for the risks and assumptions made during the development of the logframe.Here we also capture stories of change such as lessons learnt,best practises and case studies.
4.At close out-There is endterm evaluation and capturing of more stories of change .
my thought