Synthesise data from a single evaluation

Methods

Processes

• Consensus conference

  A consensus conference is a formal public meeting, which gives the general public the chance to contribute to and be involved in the assessment of an issue or proposal.

• Expert panel

  Expert panels are used when specialized input and opinion is required for an evaluation.

Techniques

• Cost-benefit analysis

  This method compares the total costs of a programme/project with its benefits, using a common metric (most commonly monetary units), which enables you to calculate the net cost or benefit associated with the programme. 

• Cost effectiveness analysis

  Cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) compares the relative costs of the outcomes of two or more courses of action and is considered an alternative to cost-benefit analysis (CBA). 

• Cost utility analysis

  Cost-utility analysis (CUA) is a method that can be used to develop an overall measure of utility or value based on the preferences of individuals.

• Lessons learnt

  Lessons learnt can take the form of describing what should or should not be done, or describing the outcome of different processes.

• Multi-criteria analysis

  A multi-criteria analysis (MCA) is a form of appraisal that measures variables such as material costs, time savings and project sustainability as well as the social and environmental impacts in addition to monetary impacts.

• Numeric weighting

  Numeric weighting involves developing numeric scales in order to rate performance against each evaluation criterion and then adding them up for a total score.

• Qualitative weight and sum

  Using qualitative ratings (such as symbols) to identify performance in terms of essential, important and unimportant criteria.

• Rubrics

  A rubric is a framework that sets out criteria and standards for different levels of performance and describes what performance would look like at each level.

• Value for money

  Value for money is a term used in different ways, including as a synonym for cost-effectiveness, and as systematic approach to considering these issues throughout planning and implementation, not only in evaluation.

Approaches

• Social return on investment

  Social Return on Investment (SROI) is a systematic way of incorporating social, environmental, economic and other values into decision-making processes.