Evaluation Planning
Oftentimes planning gets overlooked, as people focus on the nitty gritty of data collection or analysis. Without giving enough to properly plan, resources may be over utilized or underutilized, the wrong outcomes might be assessed, unfeasible targets set, etc. It is critical to the success of your program or project that you spend enough time on this phase.
Evaluation Logic Models
What is it? A logic model is a one-page, compelling graphic (your road map) that tells the reader/reviewer exactly what, when, where, why, and how. It is one of, if not the most critical, element of your evaluation because it serves as the backbone to the entire program or project. Within it, resources, activities or strategies, along with their deliverables (outputs) are aligned with the project’s intended short, medium, and long-term outcomes. The goal of the process is complete alignment of all variables.
Evaluations are based on logic models in order to determine what exactly should be evaluated within the program or project. When you can clearly articulate the process, form, and function of your program, and it is aligned with the overall goal, then you are able to determine the most appropriate evaluation questions.
While logic models are imperatives for program proposals, there are increasing requests for them on research proposals (theories of change may be used in research when ideas are being explored). Logic models are often sent along with concept papers for a Program Officer’s review before the proposal is submitted. Collaborators and partners can quickly see what is needed of them within a program, as well as the intended results of their participation.
Very few people get the logic model right their first time — it takes some coaching and a few rounds of changes before the visual makes sense and appropriately tells your story. We can help you. In the meantime, check out our whitepaper entitled, How do we develop a Logic Model?
How can we help you?
- Develop succinct logic models
- Develop clear theories of change
- Confirm appropriateness of goals, objectives, outcomes (and outputs)
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Learn MoreEvaluation Logic Models
A logic model is a one-page, compelling graphic (your road map) that tells the reader/reviewer exactly what, when, where, why, and how.
Learn MoreArticles and White Papers About Evaluation Logic Models
Baselines: The Bottom Line
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Read MoreFAQ About Evaluation Logic Models
Lessons learned should come from multiple sources, not just a single source, so that the information gained can be reinforced and triangulated.
Key stakeholder engagement in all evaluation phases, including in the reporting phase, is typically an important part of the evaluation process. Engaging stakeholders in reporting can help define the report audience and make sure the report findings meet the evaluation purpose.
The process is similar to how research analysis would be conducted, in that an evaluation and coordinating analysis plan would be developed early on in project planning, both tied to key analysis questions that drive the methods used.
This depends on the type of data you have and your target audience, but there are many options when it comes to data visualization. A few examples include Tableau, SAS, and Nvivo.
The major advantages of longitudinal analysis are that you can assess change or show clear patterns, as there are multiple time points of data collection. The major disadvantages are that this type of study takes longer to do, is more expensive, and is more limited in terms of breadth of experience.
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Peggy Ostrander, DNPc, APRN, FNP-C Plano, Texas