Book excerpt: The merit of an effective State is measured by the discernment of accountability, transparency, efficient service delivery exemplified in admirable performance of a responsive government that provides for sustainable socio-economic development. The mounting demands for greater accountability and meritorious service delivery structures in government indisputably make Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) a powerful public management tool that can be used to improve the way governments and organizations achieve better results.The latest edition of Introduction to South Africa's Monitoring and Evaluation in Government provides a comprehensive study guide and useful resource for all public sector managers, development practitioners, undergraduate and post-graduate studies in the process of designing and building a results-based monitoring and evaluation system.