Accessibility
 
II. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION
H. Monitoring and evaluation
The Seminar had a brief introduction to programme monitoring and evaluation by
representatives of SOLIDERE and of the United Nations Secretariat. It was noted that the
term "monitoring and evaluation" refers to a process of social learning, about
the ways in which inputs are converted to outputs, and assessment of outputs produced with
reference to effects and impact on intended beneficiaries. Monitoring and evaluation
systems are based upon the objectives set for a project, which should be expressed in
quantifiable and verifiable terms to ensure valid and reliable measures. Monitoring data
focus on the relationship between inputs and conversion factors; evaluation data refer to
outputs produced.
Due to the limited data available on persons with disabilities, monitoring and
evaluation of disability programmes most likely will involve purpose collection of data
among the intended beneficiary population. Determination of what to measure is based upon
the specification of the objective function in quantifiable and verifiable terms. Data
collection will occur at the level at which the project will deliver its services or
products, normally the individual or family unit.
Measures normally will made at pre- and post-intervention stages to determine the
nature, extent and reasons for change in the beneficiary population as a result of
programme or project activities.
Mr. Ousama Kabbani, representative of SOLIDERE, described its approach to evaluation
procedures and discussed its findings to date. Mr. Kabbani noted that SOLIDERE had
produced a number of building codes that were not previously available in Lebanon - for
instance a fire code - in addition to its barrier-free design and planning manual. The
codes currently are applicable only to SOLIDERE and its activities in the Beirut Central
District since there has yet to be legislation to apply the codes to all of Lebanon.
One result of the SOLIDERE experience is the recognition throughout Lebanon of the
success of the accessible design and planning in the Beirut Central District. This means
that SOLIDERE was successful in convincing developers that accessibility does not cost
more and instead adds extra value to the site.
Currently about 50 to 60 per cent of the buildings in the Beirut Central District are
judged to meet the accessibility code: renovated and rehabilitated buildings are
internally accessible but are not always accessible on the outside. New buildings must
meet the relevant SOLIDERE codes. The accessibility of the Beirut Central District had
been studied by a recent ECSWA post-occupancy survey, which included persons with
disabilities on its survey teams.
The SOLID?ERE experience is judged to be sustainable over the long term only if
appropriate national legislation is established concerning nation wide applicability of
the codes developed for the planning and redevelopment of the Beirut Central District.
Civil society and the non-governmental community have important contributions to make with
regard to promoting public awareness and support for environmental accessibility codes and
guidelines.
Another way to promote awareness of the accessibility codes could be through
presentation of "awards" to recognise examples of good practice in Lebanon.
Awards would serve to create a greater sense of value in restoring older buildings in the
Beirut Central District and to make some money in the process.
In a discussion of the SOLIDERE experience, one participant cited as relevant precedent
the "Handicap Friendly Building" award of the Republic of Singapore.
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