What is the Difference between Quantitative and Qualitative Indicators?
Quantitative indicators are commonly believed to be measurements of cold, hard facts and rigid numbers; their validity, truth and objectivity taken as unshakeable facts. They are also seen as “objective and verifiable”. For example, the number of computers in a workplace or the number of telephones in a community; the quantity and frequency of computer and internet – related training workshops. Quantitative indicators deal with outputs, are easier to define and to look for. On the other hand, qualitative indicators are seen as subjective, unreliable and difficult to verify. They are more difficult to ascertain because they probe the whys of situations and the contexts of people’s decisions, actions and perceptions. However, qualitative indicators are valuable to the evaluation process because projects and initiatives are involved with studying changes in people’s lives and in communities. They seek to measure the impact and evaluate the long-term effects and benefits of a project or an
