Preliminary research is a crucial part of the program evaluation process and can provide invaluable insights into the program's potential for success.
A program evaluation research consultant can help you identify strengths and weaknesses that may impact a program's ability to achieve its goals. This takes into account various factors that will affect the program's implementation and outcomes. This helps decision-makers determine whether or not to proceed with the program.
Here are some of the most common methods research consultants use.
Stakeholder Analysis
One of the first things a program evaluation research consultant will do is perform a stakeholder analysis. This involves identifying and assessing the interests, needs, and priorities of those who will be affected by the program. This includes program participants, staff, funders, and other key stakeholders.
The goal is to understand how the program will impact each stakeholder group and what each group's priorities are. This information can then be used to make decisions about the program that are in the best interest of all involved.
For example, if a program is designed to reduce crime in a community, the stakeholders might include the police, local businesses, and residents. The consultant would assess the needs and interests of each group and determine how the program could best be designed to meet those needs.
They could also identify potential conflicts that could arise and make recommendations for how to avoid or resolve them.
Literature Review
Another common method used by program evaluation research consultants is a literature review. This involves researching and reviewing existing literature on the topic of the program.
This can help to identify best practices, gaps in the research, and other important information that can be used to improve the program. It can also help identify potential risks or challenges that could impact the program's success.
For example, if a program is designed to reduce teenage pregnancy, the consultant would review existing research on the topic. This could include studies on risk factors for teenage pregnancy, effective prevention strategies, and the impact of teenage pregnancy on individuals and families.
This information would then be used to improve the program design and increase the chances of success. They can offer guidance on what has been tried in the past and help avoid potential pitfalls.
Logic Model
A logic model is another tool that program evaluation research consultants often use. This is a visual representation of the program that includes the inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impact. This helps clarify the program's goals and identify how they will be achieved. It also helps identify any potential risks or challenges that could impact the program's success.
For example, if a program is designed to increase market share for a product, the logic model would include the inputs (e.g., funds, staff, materials), activities (e.g., marketing campaign, sales training), outputs (e.g., increased awareness, increased sales), outcomes (e.g., increased market share), and impact (e.g., increased profitability).
This information would then be used to make decisions about the program and ensure that it is on track to achieve its goals. For more information on program evaluation, contact a professional near you.