First, ex ante evaluations provide a basis for preparing programming plans and documents of which they form a part. They are the responsibility of the Member State. Second, mid-term evaluations, carried out half-way through the programming period, are fundamental to assess the progress of the Programmes and, where appropriate, determine re-programming and modifications in the management procedures considered necessary. Lastly, the ex post evaluation covers the utilisation of funds, the effectiveness and efficiency of the assistance and its impact.