Why We Evaluate
A commitment to learning through evaluation is useful because it ensures that we are thoughtful about what we do, fully conscious of our choices and actions, and prepared to make adjustments based on the results.
Whether a funder is designing a granting program, or an organization is developing a proposal, a commitment to learning through evaluation requires that we
- describe our goals and aspirations
- articulate the assumptions with which we begin
- summarize the activities we undertake
- assess our ability to execute these activities
- measure the quantitative differences that result
- observe changes in thinking, attitude or behaviour
- reflect on what has been learned, and
- use this knowledge to inform operations
At Metcalf, this commitment is enriched when we observe and try to understand the evolving experience of grantees on the ground, so we can reflect on those lessons, and try to incorporate them into our work.
A Context For Evaluation >
How We Evaluate >