Getting Started

Evaluation Concerns

Program managers and staff can sometimes be reluctant participants in the evaluation process. Below are some frequently-expressed concerns about program evaluation and responses to those concerns.

Concern:	Evaluation draws resources away from program services.
Response:	Without evaluation, how do you know that the services being provided are effective? Program managers can explore options for obtaining evaluation services inexpensively.

Concern:	Evaluation increases the burden on program staff.
Response:	Evaluators can often implement changes to current client data collection procedures, resulting in little additional effort on the part of program staff. To reduce the burden and increase "buy-in," program staff should be involved in designing evaluation instruments and interpreting evaluation findings.

Concern:	Evaluation is too complicated for program managers and staff to understand.
Response:	An evaluation does not need to have the most rigorous scientific method, design, and analysis to be considered useful and valuable. Evaluation findings should be expressed in a manner that can be readily understood and used by program managers, staff, and other stakeholders.

Concern:	Evaluation may produce negative results that will harm the program.
Response:	A good evaluation will point out both program strengths and weaknesses. No reputable evaluator will willingly participate in an evaluation designed to harm a program.

Learn More...

Common Concerns about Evaluation (Department of Housing and Urban Development)

Guide to Frugal Evaluation for Criminal Justice (National Institute of Justice, Chapter 6)

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