What is program evaluation?

Evaluation uses quantitative and qualitative methods to strategically analyze the various components of a program or initiative (Freeman, Lipsey, & Rossi, 2004). In doing so, evaluations determine the extent to which the “program theory/ theory of change” that underlies the program is effective and valid.

What is program monitoring?

Program monitoring involves keeping track of the resources that a program or initiative uses and what becomes of these resources. (e.g., how many people are exposed to the program.) Often, this information is required to obtain grants.

It seems like a lot of work. Why should my organization do this?

When conducted deliberately, conscientiously, and thoroughly, evaluation can be a powerful tool to identify the successes of a program to allow it to continue to be implemented or the lessons learned may be expanded to other sites. Similarly, it also has the potential to identify the problematic areas of a program, so that improvements can be made or resources allocated to other areas.