Tag: programs

Since 1985, we have successfully conducted evaluations ranging from large, multi-state and multi-site community leadership programs to small, non-profit education and human services programs. We practice a utilization-focused approach, working closely with our clients to answer significant questions and provide information that can immediately be put to use in improving outcomes. We use a wide variety of methods, both quantitative and qualitative. Current and past clients include major foundations, colleges and universities, multi-sector collaboratives, and a wide range of non-profit agencies.

Several educational programs in the field of evaluation. One-day workshops are available as well as Master programs and distance learing opportunities.

Good program evaluations assess program performance, measure impacts on families and communities, and document program successes. With this information, programs are able to direct limited resources to where they are most needed and most effective in their communities.
To help programs fulfill these goals, the Administration on Children, Youth, and Families (ACYF) has developed THE PROGRAM MANAGER'S GUIDE TO EVALUATION. The Guide explains program evaluation -what it is, how to understand it, and how to do it. It answers your questions about evaluation and explains how to use evaluation to improve programs and benefit staff and families.

Carter McNamara offers a document which provides guidance toward planning and implementing an evaluation process for for-profit or nonprofit programs - there are many kinds of evaluations that can be applied to programs, for example, goals-based, process-based, outcomes-based, etc.
Sections of This Topic Include:
- Program Evaluation: carefully getting information to make decisions about programs
- Where Program Evaluation is Helpful
- Basic Ingredients (you need an organization and program(s))
- Planning Program Evaluation (what do you want to learn about, what info is needed)
- Major Types of Program Evaluation (evaluating program processes, goals, outcomes, etc.)
- Overview of Methods to Collect Information (questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, etc.)
- Selecting Which Methods to Use (which methods work best to get needed info from audiences)
- Analyzing and Interpreting Information
- Reporting Evaluation Results
- Who Should Carry Out the Evaluation?
- Contents of an Evaluation Plan
- Pitfalls to Avoid