What is impact evaluation and why is it important?

What is impact evaluation and why is it important?

Impact evaluation is a systematic method to assess the changes that can be attributed to a particular intervention or program. It's important because it helps organizations understand the effectiveness of their initiatives and make informed decisions.

Can you give me an example of impact evaluation in practice?

Sure! For instance, a non-profit organization might conduct an impact evaluation to determine whether a new educational program improved student performance compared to previous years.

What methods are commonly used in impact evaluation?

Common methods include randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental designs, and before-and-after studies. Each has its strengths and weaknesses depending on the context.

How can I apply impact evaluation in my organization?

You can start by defining clear objectives for your program, selecting appropriate evaluation methods, and collecting data before and after implementation to measure changes.

What challenges might I face in conducting an impact evaluation?

Challenges can include data collection issues, resource constraints, and ensuring that the evaluation design is robust enough to yield valid results.