Clarifying the program design is important for ensuring that an evaluation provides a fair assessment of a program’s strengths and weaknesses. A program’s intent, activities, and projected results must be clarified at the outset of any evaluation to make sure that the evaluation matches the program. If an evaluation does not match its corresponding program, the evaluation might measure processes and outcomes that are not reflective of what the program is trying to accomplish.

One of the best strategies for clarifying a program’s design is to develop specific, measurable program objectives. Well-developed objective statements detail program processes (activities) and projected outcomes (results). Furthermore, well-developed objective statements contain measurement components, which immediately provide direction for an evaluation that matches the program design. 

Another strategy for clarifying a program’s design it to create a program logic model. A logic model is a picture that illustrates the connection between program inputs (such as staff and resources), activities (processes), and outcomes (both short- and long-term).  A well-developed logic model will provide a map that can be used to connect an evaluation with its corresponding program.

Clarifying the program’s design may seem like an easy step to skip in the evaluation process, especially if it appears obvious what the program is trying to accomplish.  However, taking the time in the beginning of the evaluation to write good objective statements and create a logic model is critical because it will focus your efforts for the rest of the evaluation. 

PHASE 2: PLAN >>