What is evaluation?
Evaluation is about gathering evidence to measure the value and quality of processes, projects and activities. It is normally done through a self-evaluation process, however in some cases where funding permits, external evaluators can be sourced to support or conduct independent evaluation.
Evaluation in PB is important at both process and programme levels. Good evaluation will allow lessons to be learned and inform improved future practice by demonstrating clearly:
What worked and why.
What didn’t work and why.
What difference the PB processes and programme made to individuals, groups, and the wider community.
What could be done differently to improve future processes and programmes.
Evaluation involves slightly more than just describing what happened. It is a way of collecting evidence and analysing it so that you can demonstrate to others whether your processes and/or programme met or exceeded expectations and what impact it has had for those involved.
Evaluation, whilst extremely important, doesn’t necessarily need to be too onerous however, it does need to ask the right questions of the right people for it to be of use.
In general, the following 4-step process should be followed in any evaluation exercise:
1. Setting Outcomes & Indicators
What is the purpose of the evaluation, what do you need to know and what does success look like – think what changes or differences the activity aimed to make, for whom and how.
2. Collecting evidence
What do we know? What went well and not so well? – how do we know this? what are people’s thoughts and opinions? How do we collect the evidence and what methods are best? – a group discussion, questionnaire, interview etc.
3. Analysing and Reporting
Put it all together, identify common themes and results, consider what has been learned from collecting the evidence.
4. Acting on your learning – communicate what was learnt and change your practices where appropriate.
Here is what we have done, this is what we will continue to do, and this is what we will change.
Additional information and resources on general self-evaluation are found on the Evaluation Support Scotland website.
Remember - the best evaluations are honest and transparent, recognising where things could have been better and what learning has come from that which can be used to improve future PB practice.
