How can, and should, Sphere monitor and evaluate its Theory of Change?

Hamna Chohan, Olivia Bornyi, and Maria San Miguel Vidal – Applied Research Project Team, Geneva Graduate Institute (IHEID)

Understanding the need

Sphere’s Theory of Change (ToC) outlines its mid-term vision across four priority areas: Policy and advocacy; Strategic partnerships; the Sphere Handbook; and the Champions Network 

But to assess the impact and relevance of Sphere’s work, a clear Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework was needed. From October 2024 to June 2025, Sphere partnered with us – a group of first-year Master’s students from the Geneva Graduate Institute – to develop a tailored M&E framework designed for Sphere’s network-based organisational model. This project fulfilled the Applied Research Project (ARP) requirement for our International and Development Studies degree. 

Starting the research

Our journey began with a deep dive into existing M&E frameworks. While none fit Sphere exactly, we borrowed elements from several models: Logframes, Kirkpatrick’s model (for evaluating organisational behaviour), Outcome Mapping (for tracking ToC indicators), Evaluating Networks for Social Change and the Ladder Framework.  

Ultimately, Outcome Mapping emerged as the strongest foundation for assessing both short- and long-term change through healthy network development. We also emphasised Kirkpatrick’s model for monitoring impact among trainers and champions. 

Insights from the network

Fifteen in-depth interviews, conducted with Sphere focal points, trainers, members, and board representatives during Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Week, shaped our approach. We heard powerful reflections on how Sphere’s Standards represent a collective commitment to dignity in humanitarian action. 

These conversations led us to create a question-driven M&E framework that aligns with the four areas of the ToC. It enables Sphere to assess effectiveness across its activities while reflecting the values and decentralised nature of the Sphere network. 

Tools for evaluation

We designed survey tools to support the evaluation process. These can be shared with stakeholders such as trainers, focal points, and government counterparts to capture collective feedback and ensure continuous learning.

The image below shows our mapped version of the M&E building blocks – highlighting the key contributors to organisational effectiveness.

Reflections and Looking Forward

This project was a learning journey for us. None of us came with prior experience in M&E, but through hands-on work and the support of Sphere staff – Felicity Fallon and Tristan Hale – and our mentor, Professor Stoicescu, we gained valuable insight into evaluating humanitarian impact. 

We’ve also included our recommendations and limitations in the full report. We hope these insights will support Sphere and its network in building a stronger, evidence-driven approach to humanitarian standards. 

Final Word

“Sphere was delighted to work again with the Geneva Graduate Institute on an Applied Research Project. This was our second consecutive year with the program, and it’s a fantastic win-win situation; the students get to work alongside the Sphere team on a real-world policy issue, and we benefit from their excellent research and analytical skills. We are very grateful to Hamna Chohan, Olivia Bornyi, and Maria San Miguel Vidal for their dedication and hard work, and congratulate them on achieving the top grade for their project.” – Felicity Fallon

View the students’ project report here: How Can and Should Sphere Monitor and Evaluate its Theory of Change?