Welcome to The MERL Tech Initiative!
MERL Tech is a term for digital tools and approaches that enable monitoring, evaluation, research and learning (MERL). The term also describes the wider field of work at the intersection of technology and MERL.
The MERL Tech Initiative and its core collaborators work with social sector organizations to achieve thoughtful tech-enabled program design, implementation, and MERL. We convene communities of practice to share learning and advance responsible, ethical, realistic digital approaches that center people, communities and societies. We advocate for a strong focus on equity, justice and avoiding harm. Learn more about our work!
Latest News
- “Hey ChatGPT, what is missing from our reports?”: A Generative AI Use Case for Public Sector MERL
- New resource: Tool for Assessing AI Vendors
- What does the data say? Join us for a roundtable on the emerging evidence on GenAI for Social & Behavioral Change
- Event: “Should we be using AI right now?” A conversation about the ethical challenges of the current moment
Upcoming Events
Join MERL professionals to connect, network and learn.
May 19: What does the data say? Join us for a roundtable on the emerging evidence on GenAI for Social & Behavioral Change
The NLP-CoP is excited to bring together leaders in the field of SBC and AI working on sectors such as sexual health, maternal health and agriculture, for a dynamic data-focused roundtable.
May 22: How to Approach and Think About the Responsible Use of GenAI For Research on Violence Against Women
Join us for an essential conversation hosted by the GVR-CN and MTI on the responsible use of GenAI in research on violence against women. As GenAI continues to reshape how research is conducted, it’s critical that those working on sensitive issues like gender-based violence are equipped with the right frameworks and ethical guidance. This session […]
Drop-in Coffee Session on AI in Evaluation with EES Learning Hub
The European Evaluation Society is hosting a Drop-in Coffee Session on AI in Evaluation, a new initiative of the EES Learning Hub. This session reflects their belief in the importance of moving from knowledge to practice. This informal virtual session is designed as a peer exchange space, a welcoming setting where professionals in the evaluation […]
MERL Tech Initiative Publications
Resources
-
Common AI Definitions & Risks for Development & Humanitarian Actors
-
The Opportunities and Risks of Foundational Models
-
CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance
-
Decolonizing Data, One Language at a Time
-
Data Ethics Guidebook and Toolkit
-
Responsible Data Governance for M&E in the African Context. Part 1: Overview of Data Governance
-
Responsible Data Governance for M&E in the African Context. Part 2: Practical Guidance
-
Data Rights for Communities
-
Catalog of Digital Solutions