19.2 FORD-Q has not set results-oriented operational objectives for each of its programs. It had only a few relevant, useful indicators for monitoring of key aspects of program performance and for periodic evaluation of those programs.
19.3 Information provided to Parliament is insufficient for assessing the extent to which the Department has attained its objectives, both legislative and operational.
19.4 FORD-Q has adopted general criteria for analyzing applications for financial assistance. The Department should draw on its experience to improve the analysis of applications; it should adapt this analysis to the size of the contribution, the type of applicant and the nature of the project in order to select the projects most likely to help in achieving its regional development objective.
19.5 The Department has signed co-operation agreements with other federal departments and agencies to improve synergy among organizations. It has also worked to forge partnerships at a more strategic level.
19.6 The Department is undertaking a major revamping of its activities. While the development phase for a new activity framework has gone well, major challenges still lie ahead. Successful implementation of the new framework will require a sustained effort by management as well as appropriate mechanisms.