Quality at Entry

• Are the project objectives worthwhile and the risks commensurate with potential rewards
• Is the project likely to achieve its objectives; and,
• Is the underlying logic clearly articulated?

In answering these questions QAG looks at a sample of new lending operations in each fiscal year. The QEA Questionnaire examines each sampled project for its strategic relevance and approach, its technical, financial and economic soundness, for evidence of stakeholder commitment and to ensure implementation arrangements are commensurate with country conditions. Of particular importance is to ensure that the operation conforms to the Bank’s Safeguard Policies. In addition, operations are examined for the quality and cost-effectiveness of Bank-related inputs and processes. Each operation is rated on a four-point scale:

Highly Satisfactory: A model operation containing elements of "best practice" that responds exceptionally well to the client's needs and has a high probability of meeting the stated development  opjectives. In addition, the operation complies with Bank Policies and procedures and involves risk commensurate with rewards.

Satisfactory: The operation responds effectively to the client's needs and is likely to meet the stated development  objectives. In addition, the operation complies with Bank policies and procedures, and involves risks commensurate with rewards.

Marginally Satisfactory: The operation would be rated satisfactory only if some significant deficiencies are corrected.

Unsatisfactory: A broad pattern of deficiencies necessitating major redesign or a substantially differnt approach before the operation could be satisfactory.

At the end of each yearly exercise, QAG produces a QEA synthesis report that is discussed with the Regions before being submitted to the Board’s Committee on Development Effectiveness (CODE).

Quality at Entry Assessment