GIS, Remote Sensing & Spatial Analysis for M&E Professionals Course

Introduction

Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial analysis are transforming Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) by enabling professionals to visualize, analyze, and interpret data geographically. This course provides participants with advanced skills to integrate spatial data into M&E systems for improved decision-making and program effectiveness.

In many development and organizational contexts, understanding “where” outcomes occur is as important as understanding “what” happens. This course emphasizes spatial thinking, helping participants analyze geographic patterns, identify disparities, and assess program impact across regions and communities.

Participants will gain hands-on experience with GIS tools, satellite imagery, and mapping software to collect, process, and visualize spatial data. The course covers both foundational and advanced techniques, ensuring participants can apply GIS effectively in M&E frameworks.

Remote sensing technologies provide access to real-time and historical data for environmental monitoring, land use analysis, disaster management, and infrastructure tracking. Participants will learn how to interpret satellite imagery and integrate it into evaluation and reporting processes.

Emerging trends such as drone mapping, real-time geospatial dashboards, and integration of GIS with mobile data collection platforms are incorporated into the course. Participants will explore how these innovations enhance data accuracy, transparency, and responsiveness.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to design and implement GIS-based M&E systems, conduct spatial analysis, and generate visual insights that support evidence-based decision-making, resource allocation, and program optimization.

Who Should Attend

• Monitoring and Evaluation Officers and Managers
• GIS and Spatial Data Analysts
• Program and Project Managers
• Data Analysts and Researchers
• NGO and Development Practitioners
• Environmental and Climate Change Specialists
• Urban Planning and Infrastructure Professionals
• Disaster Risk Management Officers
• Donor-Funded Project Staff
• Policy Analysts and Planners
• Survey and Mapping Professionals
• Government and Public Sector Practitioners

Duration

10 Days

Course Objectives

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis concepts for application in M&E systems.
• Equip participants with practical skills to collect, manage, and analyze spatial data using GIS tools and mapping software.
• Strengthen participants’ ability to integrate spatial analysis into monitoring frameworks for improved program tracking and evaluation.
• Enhance knowledge of remote sensing techniques for interpreting satellite imagery and environmental data in evaluation contexts.
• Build capacity to design geospatial dashboards and maps that communicate program performance effectively to stakeholders.
• Provide participants with tools to analyze geographic patterns, trends, and disparities for evidence-based decision-making.
• Improve competencies in integrating GIS with mobile data collection platforms and real-time monitoring systems.
• Enable participants to use spatial data to assess program coverage, accessibility, and impact across different regions.
• Strengthen skills in data visualization, cartography, and storytelling using maps and geospatial tools.
• Empower participants to apply GIS in diverse sectors, including health, agriculture, infrastructure, and disaster management.
• Foster understanding of emerging geospatial technologies such as drones, AI-driven mapping, and real-time spatial analytics.
• Enhance participants’ ability to generate actionable insights that improve program design, targeting, and resource allocation.

Comprehensive Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to GIS for M&E

• Concepts and components of GIS
• Role of GIS in monitoring and evaluation
• Types of spatial data
• Applications across sectors

Module 2: Spatial Data Collection

• Sources of spatial data
• GPS data collection techniques
• Field data collection tools
• Data accuracy and validation

Module 3: GIS Software & Tools

• Overview of GIS platforms (QGIS, ArcGIS)
• Interface and functionalities
• Data import and export
• Managing GIS projects

Module 4: Data Management & Processing

• Data cleaning and preparation
• Coordinate systems and projections
• Spatial data formats
• Database management

Module 5: Mapping & Visualization

• Creating thematic maps
• Symbolization and styling
• Map layouts and design
• Visual storytelling with maps

Module 6: Remote Sensing Fundamentals

• Introduction to satellite imagery
• Types of sensors and data
• Image resolution and interpretation
• Applications in M&E

Module 7: Image Processing & Analysis

• Preprocessing satellite data
• Image classification techniques
• Change detection analysis
• Extracting meaningful insights

Module 8: Spatial Analysis Techniques

• Overlay and buffer analysis
• Proximity and network analysis
• Hotspot and cluster analysis
• Spatial statistics

Module 9: GIS for Program Monitoring

• Mapping project locations and activities
• Tracking program coverage
• Monitoring service delivery
• Linking spatial data with KPIs

Module 10: Integration with M&E Systems

• Combining GIS with data collection platforms
• Linking spatial and non-spatial data
• Real-time monitoring systems
• Data interoperability

Module 11: Geospatial Dashboards

• Designing interactive dashboards
• Visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau)
• Real-time spatial monitoring
• Communicating insights

Module 12: Emerging Technologies (Emerging Topic)

• Drone mapping and aerial imagery
• AI and machine learning in GIS
• Real-time geospatial analytics
• Future trends in spatial data

Module 13: Applications in Development Sectors

• GIS in health and education programs
• Agriculture and food security monitoring
• Infrastructure and urban planning
• Disaster risk management

Module 14: Data Security & Ethics

• Ethical use of spatial data
• Privacy and confidentiality
• Data protection standards
• Responsible data sharing

Module 15: Case Studies & Best Practices

• Real-world GIS applications in M&E
• Lessons learned from projects
• Benchmarking best practices
• Group discussions and insights

Module 16: Practical Exercises & Action Planning

• Hands-on GIS mapping exercises
• Spatial data analysis projects
• Dashboard creation and reporting
• Developing implementation plans

Training Approach

The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.

All facilitation and course materials will be offered in English. The participants should be reasonably proficient in English.

Certification

Upon successful completion of the training, participants will be awarded a certificate of completion by Steady Development Center.

Training Venue

The training will be held online. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, tutorials and all required training manuals. Any other personal expenses are catered by the participant.
For registration and further enquiries, contact us on:

• Tel: +254 701 180 097
• Email: training@steadytrainingcenter.com

Tailor-Made Option

This course can be customized to suit the specific needs of your organization and be delivered on-line to any convenient location.

Terms Of Payment

Upon agreement by both parties’ payment should be made to Steady Development Center’s official account at least 3 working days before training begins to facilitate adequate preparation.

Our Upcoming Training Schedule