RBM can mean different things to different people. A simple explanation is that RBM is the way an organization [or sector institutions] is motivated and applies processes and resources to achieve targeted results.

Results refer to outcomes and intermediate outcomes that convey benefits to the community [e.g. Education for All (EFA), targets set in both Mongolia and Cambodia]. Results also encompass the service outputs that make those outcomes possible [such as trained students and trained teachers]. The term 'results' can also refer to internal outputs such as services provided by one part of the organization for use by another. The key issue is that results differ from 'activities' or 'functions'. Many people when asked what they produce [services] describe what they do [activities].

RBM encompasses four dimensions, namely:

» Specified results that are measurable, monitorable and relevant;

» Resources that are adequate for achieving the targeted results;

» Organizational arrangements that ensure authority and responsibilities are aligned with results and resources

» Processes for planning, monitoring, communicating and resource release that enable the organization to convert resources into the desired results.

RBM may use some new words or apply specific meanings to some words in general usage. Check introduction to RBM presentation here.

RBM references that provide more background:

» RBM diagnostic tool for Cambodia and Mongolia

» A diagram showing relationships between goals and outcomes

» United Nations Development Program (UNDP) RBM overview [PDF 106 Kb]

» Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) RBM overview [PDF 372 Kb]

» RBM - Study in development agencies [PDF 342 Kb]