Evaluation readiness: improved evaluation planning using a data inventory framework.

Area of Science:

• Program Evaluation
• Public Administration
• Management Science

Background:

• Program evaluability is often limited by intrinsic factors like ambiguous objectives, undefined performance measures, and unreliable data.
• Existing evaluation planning methods face constraints in overcoming these challenges and ensuring full preparedness for evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce the concept of evaluation readiness as a complementary approach to existing evaluation planning methods.
• Describe the core components of evaluation readiness: formal program definition and data inventory framework.
• Provide guidance for enhancing timely and appropriate evaluation response capabilities to support program managers' decision-making needs.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual development of evaluation readiness.
• Description of key products: formal program definition and data inventory framework.
• Discussion of utility for program planning and management.

Main Results:

• Evaluation readiness addresses limitations in current evaluation planning approaches.
• Formal program definition and data inventory framework are key outputs.
• Improved evaluation response capability supports program managers.

Conclusions:

• Evaluation readiness enhances program planning and management effectiveness.
• The concept complements evaluability assessment.
• It ensures more timely and appropriate evaluation responses for decision-making.