Paper short abstract:

We introduce the session by highlighting the dilemmas inherent in attempting to co-produce credible development impact attribution in an inclusive way. These are explored through reflection on case study experience with commissioning and use of the qualitative impact protocol (QuIP).

Paper long abstract:

Development impact attribution underpins claims to efficiency, upward accountability and legitimacy; but it can also foster exclusivity - weakening incentives to downward accountability and collective action. It is also hard to do credibly to serve multiple purposes and audiences. This paper introduces the session by reflecting on the dilemmas and trade-offs that the practice of impact attribution present to development agencies in their quest to manage performance effectively and openly. The issue is explored through reflective practice based on co-design and application of the qualitative impact protocol (QuIP).