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Concept level
The focus at this level of evaluation is the program design or planning. It takes place early on in the program process (planning phase).
program process
The program process structures the different phases of a => program from planning over mobilization and implementation to integration of results.
The goal is to check and improve the design ( formative evaluation ).
formative evaluation
“A type of process evaluation of new programs or services that focuses on collecting data on program operations so that needed changes or modifications can be made to the program in the early stages. This type of (=>) evaluation is carried out while a (=>) project or (=>) program is implemented in order to provide timely, continuous feedback as work progresses”. (From: Nonprofit Good Practice Guide, Formative Evaluation)
The following questions might be asked at this level:
Have the goals of the
program been clearly defined?
This question is important for two reasons:
a) On
the one hand, the critical analysis (and the corresponding revision) of the
goals of the program in the planning phase might contribute to
the improvement of the program design. The subject matter and “rationality” of the program become clearer, which means they can be communicated better.
b) On the other hand, in a conclusive evaluation, the program can only answer the question as to whether its goals have been achieved if they have been formulated clearly and precisely enough.
Is there a need?
A program will be successful only if its products and results can cover a specific need. Especially if the needs of the target group are still unclear, it is recommended that a needs analysis is carried out beforehand. To do this, the current and target situation are compared. The gap between the current and target situation, thus the need, is also a guideline for a conclusive evaluation of the program, since it attempts to answer the question as to whether the target situation has been achieved, i.e. whether the needs could have been met.
Is the project feasible?
With the help of a feasibility study, the attainability of program goals can be estimated in advance (ex ante). A feasibility study frequently also shows solution options or new possibilities of implementation.
