A good M&E framework is short, logical and used. Most weak frameworks fail on the same three points.
Begin with a defensible Theory of Change
The framework should follow the causal logic, not precede it. Set out the problem, the intervention, the intermediate outcomes and the assumptions that must hold for change to occur, then measure the assumptions, not only the outputs.
Select fewer, better indicators
Every indicator should have a definition, a formula, a data source, a collection frequency, a responsible person, a baseline and a target. If any of these are missing, the indicator will not survive contact with implementation.
Design the data flow, not just the matrix
Specify who collects data, on what tool, where it is stored, who cleans it, who analyses it, and where it is reported. Most framework failures are data-flow failures rather than indicator-selection failures.
Build in learning
Attach a learning agenda with a small number of questions the program genuinely does not know the answer to, and schedule the moments when the answers will be reviewed and acted on.