Program Evaluation and Review

Howard Partners has developed a unique approach to program evaluation that addresses both program performance and program improvement.

Howard Partners Approach

We take an integrated approach to the review of efficiency, effectiveness and appropriateness in the key areas of policy, organisation, management, resource allocation, administrative processes, service outputs, and impacts and outcomes.

Howard Partners has developed a proprietary evaluation methodology based on the following framework –

This framework has been applied successfully in all evaluation assignments that have been conducted by Howard Partners over the last several years. It focuses attention on the linkages between what is intended and what is achieved, and reflects a “value chain” approach between policy intent and program outcomes.

An important task in evaluation is to test the connections between policy objectives and the outcomes and results and to ensure blockages or brakes on the elements or links are identified and resolved. These links relate to program efficiency, effectiveness, and appropriateness.

• The importance of “value” being added to the program outcome in each element
• The potential influence of pressures, constraints and stakeholder interests in all elements and linkages of the “chain” - which can in turn impact on the outcome
• The importance of reporting, accountability and probity matters – again in all elements of the “chain”.

The framework also draws attention to the underlying importance of management capacity and capability in moving from policy objective to outcome. That is, the process does not occur automatically or exogenously. Management input is required in all facets and is a key determinant of program success.

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