Evaluation Use

Throughout this evaluation, the goal of the process must be kept in mind. Thus, the purpose of this evaluation "to measure impacts and understand to what extent these can be attributed to the program...so that judgements can be made about the program" (Unicef Innocenti, 2014). These judgements will be used by stakeholders to impact positive change within the program. Nonetheless, there are ways to enhance the use of the evaluation and ensure that it has practical application. Overall, Unicef Innocenti (2014), asserts "keep the representation of data simple so that it engages a variety of stakeholders". This is done by focusing on the key evaluation questions and using those as a structure and springboard for communication findings to the stakeholders.

In the early stages of this evaluation, the stakeholders/intended users were outlined. In addition, the content of the evaluation was discussed and outlined. The enhancement of evaluation use, then, refers to how the findings of the evaluation will be effectively communicated to stakeholders so that the information can be utilized in an impactful way. In order to make this evaluation useful for The Grocery Foundation, it will be enhanced in the following ways:

Timeliness

As Huey-Tsyh Chen (2005) explains, "the timely analysis of data and presentation of findings to stakeholders by the evaluator” (p. 119) is an effective way of engaging intended users. Thus, without sacrificing quality, the evaluation will be completed and communicated in a timely manner so that lapses in time do not hinder the use of the evaluation findings. This focus on timeliness will ensure that the dissemination of findings remains relevant for all stakeholders.

Media Appeal

Although reports are useful, there are many other effective ways of communicating information, especially in the 21st century. For example, "clear visualizations can be used to strengthen the message" (Unicef Innocenti, 2014). These non-traditional forms of reporting may be less robust at first glance, but they provide rich, concise and engaging methods of digesting information. As with The Grocery Foundation's website, video clips, participant stories, infographics and diagrams are all use to delivering information in an appealing manner.

Clear Recommendations

Apart from the formal reporting, a consolidation of the results can be a useful way of intentionally encouraging stakeholders to engage in courageous conversations and thinking critically about the findings. According to Better Evaluation (n.d.), the recommendations can touch upon "how a program can be improved, how the risk of program failure can be reduced or whether a program should continue". These recommendation be discussed in a variety of settings (face-to-face, online forum, etc.) and by different groupings of stakeholders (individual reflection, group discussion, site-specific town halls, etc.). The CDC (2012) explains that clear recommendations can "strengthen an evaluation when they anticipate and react to what users want to know, and may undermine an evaluation’s credibility if they are not supported by enough evidence, or are not in keeping with stakeholders’ values".

Stakeholder Support

Once the evaluation findings and recommendations are presented to stakeholders, the process should not abruptly end. Conversely, the follow-up to the evaluation is essential to ensuring that the evaluation is used effectively. These intentional opportunities to re-visit the evaluation should be built-into the reporting process and/or recommendation so that actionable items are addressed and /or completed. Although the use of the evaluation can be organic, it can be enhanced by structured opportunities for review. It is important to remember that program stakeholders may benefit from evaluators "providing additional tools and technical assistance to build and enhance their capacity for evaluation" (CDC, 2012).