Measure quality of services after completion
Confirm that the constructed infrastructure / delivered intervention is in well functioning / in good condition and provides good quality services
To determine the quality of project outputs the functionality of the infrastructure and the quality of the provided services is determined at the project site using different types of tests (e.g. related to water quality) and inspections.
Purpose and link to IQC
Measure quality of services after completion of project help assuring that the project output is fit for purpose – e.g. the infrastructure is functional and can be used to deliver the envisaged benefits (quality, quantity, convenience, continuity, health) to the target group. It is a key step to unveil and reduce low quality of work, theft of assets and other illicit practices.
How to
1. Determine the parameters that need to be checked
In the first place it is important to select how you will measure the quality of the service. Answering the following questions will help you to determine key parameters that you should check and how:
- What is the objective of the project?
- Which test will you use to check if the intervention provides services that meet the project objectives?
- How can you determine of services are continuously available?
- How can you determine if the intervention provides sufficient services for the entire target group?
2. Carry the quality test out and document the results
Prepare a table that will allow you to document all tests. Carry out or organize for the implementation of all checks, document the results and date of the test. Where applicable confirm the results by having the person that performed the test sign the documentation sheet.
Example for a water pump:
| Methodology to measure quality of service | Results | Date and signature |
| Water quality test | Drinking water quality | John Smith
27th August 2015 |
| Discharge test 1 | Uninterrupted water supply with a flow of 17 litres/minute at 9am | John Smith
27th August 2015 |
| Discharge test 2 | Uninterrupted water supply with a flow of 17 litres/minute at 2pm | John Smith
27th August 2015 |
| Discharge test 3 | Uninterrupted water supply with a flow of 17 litres/minute at 7pm | John Smith
27th August 2015 |
| Leakage test | No leakage | John Smith
27th August 2015 |
| … | … | … |
Note: for software projects, it can be checked to what extend the delivered information has been taken up by the participants (e.g. capacity building training, awareness raising campaigns…).
Template
References & Further Readings
- SSWM, The Sustainable Sanitation and Water Management Toolbox. Follow-up of Projects (web): http://www.sswm.info/category/planning-process-tools/ensuring-sustainability/tools-ensure-sustainability/ensure-sustain-3
- 2011. Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality. Geneva
- 2013. Introduction to Drinking Water Quality Testing. Canada