Evaluation Data Collection

Data collection for evaluation only comes after a series of important questions have been resolved in the planning and design phases. Typically, data collection comes in the form of interviews, focus groups, surveys, document reviews, or direct observation. Each of the questions and structure must be designed with evaluation questions and objectives in mind.

Regardless of the type of data collection method used, each of the questions (within a survey or interview, for example) and structure must be designed with the end of analysis and insights in mind. All too often, methods and questions are selected that do not provide the analysis or type of results that were desired.

Questions to consider before collecting data include:

• What questions do we need to answer with this evaluation? Which methods are most appropriate to these questions? Will they provide (the most) reliable and valid data?
• Who will use these findings? Who will make decisions based on the findings? What kinds of data would make the most sense for them?
• Where would the data come from? Who would provide it? How much data do you need?
• What is the timeframe?
• What resources (time, staff, budget, etc.) are available for data collection (and analysis)? How are resources appropriated between data collection, analysis, and presentation of findings?
• Is there a better time for data collection?
• When do the results need to be available to the key stakeholders (i.e., decision makers)?

Within each of the planning links below, we provide a definitions, how we can help you, and articles and whitepapers that will help you on your journey.