Priority setting for evaluation: developing a strategic evaluation portfolio.

Area of Science:

• Evaluation Science
• Organizational Management
• Public Administration

Background:

• Evaluation resources are often limited, necessitating strategic allocation.
• Effective evaluation serves dual purposes: enhancing accountability and fostering operational improvement and learning.
• Prioritizing evaluation activities is crucial for maximizing their return on investment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a method for analyzing and prioritizing potential evaluations.
• To improve the selection of evaluation activities for maximum payoff.
• To ensure scarce evaluation resources are utilized to their best advantage.

Main Methods:

• Developing a systematic approach to analyze and prioritize 'evaluation opportunities'.
• Establishing relative priorities based on criteria aligned with primary evaluation functions.
• Applying the method within a multilateral organization context for practical utility.

Main Results:

• A structured method for assessing and prioritizing evaluation opportunities.
• Demonstration of portfolio analysis for evaluation activities.
• Practical examples from a multilateral environmental agency's work plan preparation.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers a robust framework for analytical priority setting in evaluations.
• Adopting this process can lead to significant organizational benefits.
• The method is adaptable for wider application within the evaluation community to optimize resource use.