Because RRF funds a wide variety of activities, there is no one format for evaluation that we can require. Different types of projects require different types of evaluation. Furthermore, some projects can produce important information around more than one set of evaluation questions.
Listed below are three categories of evaluation questions we have found relevant for the majority of our applicants/grantees. Each is described in general terms here. For more details that can help you decide which are most relevant for you, click on the links in blue. You may also call us (773/714-8080) or e-mail Nancy R. Zweibel, Ph.D., our staff expert on evaluation, at zweibel@rrf.org for more direction.
Implementation Evaluation asks about the practical lessons that emerge from putting a project into action. Implementation evaluations are relevant for such activities as (1) planning; (2) taking a known model and adapting it or offering it to a different audience; (3) testing an innovative program for the first time; and (4) community organizing or other advocacy-related work. Rarely does a project go off without a hitch. Lessons learned in implementation help grantees identify where their approach may need modifying and what critical next steps are needed. They also help those wishing to replicate the work avoid the pitfalls others experienced.
Process Evaluation is designed to generate a blueprint of a program for one of two important purposes: (1) to make it easier for others to replicate your work; and/or (2) to clearly describe a program whose outcomes are or may be being tested. Process evaluations document how a program operates by describing characteristics of clients and staff, the nature of services offered and methods of service delivery, patterns of service use, and client, staff or community satisfaction. Most applicants will find this form of evaluation relevant for their proposed work.
Outcome Evaluation is what most people think of when they hear the term "evaluation." Outcome evaluation assesses whether a program "makes a difference". The goal is to see if outcomes for participants are different from those of individuals who are similar to them in every way except that they were not exposed to the program being studied. An extensive, scientific outcome evaluation is only appropriate when a program is innovative, replicable and has already been shown to be feasible. To open and save a copy of the Outcomes Chart, click here.
