Assessing the Impact of Your Programs

What are program evaluations?

Program evaluations are research studies that assess the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of a program. They are typically conducted after a program has been implemented, and involve collecting and analyzing data to understand whether the program is meeting its intended goals and objectives. Program evaluations can be used to identify areas for improvement in the program, determine whether the program is having the desired impact, and inform decisions about whether to continue, modify, or end the program. Further, SMS recommends developing evaluation criteria before implementation to ensure that the program has measurable and achievable success metrics.

Why are program evaluations important?

Program evaluations are important because they allow organizations to understand the effectiveness of their programs, and to make informed decisions about how to allocate resources and improve their impact. Without program evaluations, organizations may continue to invest in programs that are not achieving their desired outcomes, or may miss opportunities to improve or modify existing programs to better serve their target populations. Program evaluations also provide accountability for the use of public and private resources, and can help organizations demonstrate the impact of their work to funders and stakeholders.

What's involved in conducting a program evaluation and how long does it take?

Conducting a program evaluation typically involves several steps and can take varying amounts of time depending on the complexity of the program and the resources available. Some common steps involved in conducting a program evaluation include defining the purpose and objectives of the evaluation, planning the evaluation design, collecting data, analyzing data, and disseminating findings. The time it takes to conduct a program evaluation will depend on the complexity of the program, the resources available, and the scope of the evaluation.

Why SMS Consulting?

First, our team has the experience and expertise to design and implement effective program evaluations that provide valuable insights and inform decision-making. We have a wide range of data collection and analysis tools and are skilled in using them to gather and interpret data. Additionally, we have a track record of working with clients across a variety of industries and sectors, and are familiar with the unique challenges and opportunities that each sector presents.

Another benefit of using a market research firm is that we are able to provide an objective perspective on a program. As an external party, we are not directly involved in the program and can bring a fresh perspective to the evaluation process. This can be particularly valuable when evaluating programs that have been in place for a long time or that have strong internal support.

Finally, using a market research firm can also save time and resources for organizations. Conducting a program evaluation can be complex and time-consuming, and requires specialized skills and expertise. By partnering with a market research firm, organizations can leverage our resources and expertise to focus on their core competencies while still obtaining valuable insights from a program evaluation.

SMS Consulting is a Native Hawaiian and woman-owned subsidiary of SMS, led by Faith Sereno Rex. SMS Consulting works closely with clients to develop strategic plans that incorporate both quantitative market analysis and forward-thinking, future-first strategies. By using foresight and anticipating potential future challenges and opportunities, we can help clients to stay ahead of the curve and position themselves for long-term success.