THE EVALUATION PROCESS
Evaluation is not something that just occurs at the end of a program. The evaluation process can be though of a set of connected tasks that are carried out from before the start of the program to beyond the end of the program.The key steps of an evaluation are usually described in similar terms (see figure below; image adapted from CDC).
The Dementia SPEAKE Program is aimed at offering people with little or no evaluation experience an entry-level introduction to these steps. These will be presented as a series of questions and actions to guide you through the development and planning of an evaluation project. The skills and knowledge should be used to begin developing focused evaluation projects and will be a starting point to furthering evaluation experience and deepening knowledge.
ENGAGING STAKEHOLDERS
Your stakeholders are a good starting point when planning a program evaluation. Stakeholders are individuals, groups, or organisations that have something to gain or lose from the evaluation (i.e., have a 'stake' in the issue).
The three main groups of stakeholders that you should engage in the evaluation process are (CDC, 2006, pp.13):
Your evaluation should prioritise the needs of stakeholders who (CDC, 2006, pp. 14):
The three main groups of stakeholders that you should engage in the evaluation process are (CDC, 2006, pp.13):
- Those involved in program operations (e.g., program managers and staff, funding agencies)
- Those served or affected by the program (e.g., clients, carers, advocacy groups)
- Those who are intended users of the evaluation findings (e.g., funding agencies, policy makers)
Your evaluation should prioritise the needs of stakeholders who (CDC, 2006, pp. 14):
- Can increase the credibility of your efforts or your evaluation
- Are responsible for the day-to-day implementation of the activities that are part of the program
- Will advocate for or authorize changes to the program that the evaluation may recommend
- Will fund or authorize the continuation or expansion of the program