Core Indicators Library

EEA and Norway Grants Financial Mechanisms 2021–2028

A standardised framework for defining and measuring programme outcomes and outputs, enabling consistent methodology for data collection, aggregation and reporting across the Grants.

Background & Purpose

Core indicators have been a key component of results-based management (RBM) in the Financial Mechanisms 2014-2021, providing a standardised framework for defining and measuring programme outcomes and outputs. When multiple programmes use the same indicators, results can be aggregated, helping to tell the Grants' overall results narrative.

Updated core indicators for FMs 2021–2028

The Financial Mechanism Office (FMO) has developed an updated and expanded core indicators library for the FMs 2021-2028, drawing from effective indicators in the previous period and aligning with the EU Results Framework (EURF), where relevant.

Core indicators have been established for all programme areas/funds in the Blue Book. These indicators are mapped to their respective programme areas/funds and should be incorporated into a programme’s Results Framework, where applicable.

01

Standardisation

Ensures consistent methodology for data collection and reporting across Programme Operators (POs) and Fund Operators (FOs).

02

Aggregation

Enables results aggregation across programmes and countries, helping to communicate the Grants' overall results.

Key Features of the Library

📋 Flexible Menu

  • Choose from a comprehensive menu of standardised indicators
  • Select indicators outcome-by-outcome and and output-by-output based on thematic relevance
  • Combine with programme-specific indicators as needed

🔗 Thematic Mapping

  • Indicators mapped to programme areas/funds
  • Aligned with Blue Book areas of support
  • For the Civil Society Fund (CSF), indicators mapped to the pre-defined outcome and output statements

🤝 Bilateral Indicators

  • Standard indicators that measure key dimensions of partnership quality
  • Includes the list of mandatory bilateral (“level of”) indicators tracked through the FMO bilateral survey
  • Access these indicators using the Bilateral filter

⚙️ Customisable

  • Many indicators can be customised by target group or theme
  • Maintains compatibility with aggregation needs
  • Flexibility to reflect specific programme contexts

🔄 Living Tool

  • Expandable based on feedback
  • Regularly updated

Application of the Library

The core indicators library is used at two main stages of the programme cycle:

Understanding Difficulty Levels

Each indicator is assigned a difficulty level based on the complexity of data collection and reporting. This traffic light system helps assess implementation feasibility:

LOW

Simple & Straightforward

Data collection and reporting are simple and straightforward. Primarily used for output-level indicators.

MEDIUM

Moderate Effort

Data collection and reporting require moderate effort and planning. Balanced approach for many indicators.

HIGH

Complex Collection

Data collection and reporting are complex. Mostly for outcome-level indicators. Few indicators fall into this category.

Tips for Using the Library

🎯 Outcome-Focused Review

Systematically review each outcome and output statement, noting that each outcome typically reflects a specific area of support. Select core indicators that align with your programme’s outcomes and outputs.

🔍 Smart Filtering

Use keyword, indicator code, or programme area/fund filters to search the list efficiently. For CSF indicators, filter by outcome and output statements.

📈 Focus on Feasibility

Consider reporting feasibility, not just quantity. Use the difficulty level system to assess the complexity of data collection and reporting requirements.