The first step of assessment planning is the Terms of Reference (TOR), which outlines the rationale, objectives, scope, and methodology of an assessment. It serves as a foundational document to guide the assessment planning and implementation, including the division of roles and responsibilities among stakeholders.
A comprehensive TOR typically includes:
Background and rationale: Contextual information explaining why the assessment is needed
Objectives: Clear articulation of what the assessment seeks to achieve
Methodology: Description of data collection methods, sampling strategy, and analytical approach
Data quality considerations: Various data quality-related activities should be holistically included throughout the relevant assessment phases
Roles and responsibilities: Identification of team members and partner contributions
Timeline and deliverables: Key milestones and expected outputs
Budget and resources: Estimated costs and required inputs
It should be detailed enough to explain the assessment step-by-step but the length varies depending on the size of the assessment. Naturally, large and more complex assessments will need a more detailed TOR than small, regular assessments.
Available Resources
Chapter 2 in the CFSVA Guidance explains assessment TORs in general
Standard food security assessment TOR template which can be adapted to each context
Standard market analysis TOR template which can be adapted to each context
Country-specific example for an elaborate TOR (coming soon)
The WFP Data Quality Checklist helps in integrating data quality aspects into assessments
For more information, please contact the Assessments and Targeting Unit in HQ VAM at global.assessmentandtargeting@wfp.org.