ASEAN Cooperation Project is conceptualised, developed, and implemented as guided by the ASEAN Project Management Framework (PMF). The ASEAN PMF follows a cyclical approach and aligns with the principles and approaches of results-based management. The ASEAN Cooperation Project cycle comprises four stages: project formulation, appraisal and approval, implementation and monitoring, and completion and reporting.
Figure 1. The ASEAN Cooperation Project Cycle at a Glance
- Project Proposal Formulation
Project proposals are developed using the ASEAN Cooperation Project Proposal Template and designed following the principles and approaches of results-based management. The project’s objectives and intended results must be aligned with key ASEAN policy documents, such as the ASEAN 2025: Forging Ahead Together roadmap, Initiative of ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan IV (2021-2025), and the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 and relevant ASEAN sectoral work plans. Project proposals must clearly indicate how a project intends to achieve its intended results, rather than simply list a set of project activities.
- Appraisal and Approval
The ASEAN Secretariat appraises project proposals to ensure compliance to the ASEAN Cooperation Project Proposal Template before forwarding to the ASEAN Sponsoring Body for endorsement, or to the Final Approving Body. A project proposal is appraised based on its relevance to ASEAN priorities. The ASEAN Secretariat also determines how effectively and efficiently a project proposal can realise its intended results, based on context and timeframes.
- Implementation and Monitoring
After appraisal and approval, a project begins implementation. Proponents or Implementing Agencies (IA) must monitor and report on the progress of the project against its approved monitoring and evaluation and work plans. The project monitors progress against its intended results—performance indicators and corresponding targets—and conducts evaluation, as applicable. A Progress Report Template is provided to guide the reporting requirements, including relevant guidance for monitoring and evaluation activities.
- Completion and Reporting
At the end of implementation and in relation to the project’s monitoring and evaluation, the Proponent or IA must prepare a Project Completion Report on the project’s results and achievements, based on data collected when monitoring project implementation as well as on additional evaluation findings, if any. Whether intended or unintended, all results must be assessed to draw lessons learned on sustainability, funds utilization, guidance for future projects, among others.
To know more about the details of each step, including related guidance to stakeholders on the procedures and required templates, see the ASEAN Cooperation Projects Design and Management Manual.
