Program Evaluation Planning
Draft a 525- to 700-word memo to the stakeholders in which you describe the need, intent, goals, and objectives of the evaluation plan you wish to be implemented.
Provide your statement of purpose. Include your vision, mission, and goals. Answer the following questions:
- What key questions need to be addressed?
- What evidence of accomplishment do you seek?
- Who are the stakeholders?
Provide 1 or 2 examples of the evaluation methods (described in Chapter 8 of the textbook) that you would like to see incorporated.
- What is your rationale for selecting these?
- What are the financial and human resources required to strengthen the design of the evaluation?
- From which stakeholders can you acquire the most impactful guidance?
Cite at least 3 peer-reviewed or similar references to support your assignment.
Format the document according to APA guidelines.
Format your memo according to APA guidelines.
Check out our Essay writing services
Program Evaluation Planning
Importance of Evaluation Planning
Evaluation planning is critical to determine whether a program meets its intended goals. Without a structured plan, organizations may lack clarity on what to measure and how to interpret results. This process ensures that evaluation activities align with the mission, objectives, and priorities of the program. It also provides a roadmap for data collection, analysis, and reporting, which supports transparency and continuous improvement.
Identifying Key Questions
Key questions guide the evaluation process by focusing on the most important aspects of performance. They may include whether the program meets its intended outcomes, how resources are used, and what impact it has on target populations. These questions help avoid unnecessary data collection and direct attention to relevant performance indicators. Clear, measurable questions also make it easier to link findings to actionable recommendations for program enhancement.
Selecting Evaluation Methods
Choosing appropriate evaluation methods is vital for accurate and meaningful results. Methods such as surveys, interviews, and performance metrics provide both quantitative and qualitative insights.
Engaging Stakeholders
Stakeholder engagement ensures that the evaluation reflects the perspectives of those directly impacted by the program. Stakeholders can include program staff, participants, funders, and community partners. Their input helps refine evaluation questions, identify relevant indicators, and interpret results. Involving stakeholders throughout the process fosters trust, strengthens buy-in, and increases the likelihood that recommendations will be implemented for long-term program success.
