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Template: Defining evaluation type

The type of evaluation needs to be defined so that it can then be designed appropriately to meet the objectives of the exercise.

The types of evaluations adopted for this framework are:

• appropriateness evaluations, which are used to define project or program objectives and investment in response to needs
• efficiency evaluations, which assess whether the processes used are maximising outputs for the level of inputs
• effectiveness evaluations, which determine to what degree a project or program has met its objectives.

The evaluation type can be identified by asking the following questions:

• What is the purpose of the evaluation?
• What stage of implementation has the project or program reached?
• What aspect of the project or program should the evaluation focus on?
• At what stage during the project or program implementation should the evaluation occur?

While these questions seem straightforward and an evaluator might assume that the answers are known intuitively, the type of evaluation required is often not obvious. Using the template will help define the evaluation type and serve as a record of the agreement reached with the evaluation ‘client’ or evaluation project team.

Defining evaluation type template (0972evaltype.doc; 34 KB)

Note: The attached template file is in Word format. Click on the link to view the document on screen. To download it, right click on the link and select 'Save target as'.

Using the template

• Consider each of the questions in the left-hand column of the template when discussing with key stakeholders or the evaluation project team.
• Using the prompts in Column 1 if required, summarise responses by selecting the most relevant response in the three right-hand columns under the types of evaluation. Alternatively, add your summary response to the most relevant column.
• Review all responses to determine the type of evaluation or combination of evaluations to be undertaken.
• Discuss these responses, if required, with the client requesting the evaluation to ensure their expectations are managed.
• Retain the worksheet and any discussion points with your evaluation documents to form a record of conversation and agreement.
• Ensure the terms of reference or evaluation strategy (for whole of CAP) reflects these findings.
• Use the result of this step to help define the evaluation questions, information needs and evaluation method.