An output indicator measures what the project directly produced – the number of supported enterprises, renovated buildings, trained people or procured equipment. A result indicator measures the change that came about because of it – energy savings, an increase in revenue, the employment of supported people, or a shortened processing time. The distinction matters, because an output is achieved through implementation, while a result only becomes apparent after some time and is monitored during the sustainability period, often in subsequent monitoring reports. When setting target values, it is worth being realistic: overstated promises earn a few extra points at evaluation, but failing to meet them later means a reduction of the contribution or the return of part of the funds. For every indicator, in addition to the target value, a baseline value is also determined, so that the actual change is measured, not an absolute state. The method of demonstrating it needs to be agreed before the contract is signed.
See also: Target value of an indicator, Follow-up monitoring report.
