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Utilization-Focused Evaluation
UpFront uses the principles of Utilization-Focused Evaluation. This evaluation framework works to get all stakeholders involved in the evaluation process. It helps make sure that evaluation is not only useful to funders by measuring successes, but also:
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Helps staff make real improvements in the program
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Helps administrators make decisions about future programs
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Helps the community make decisions about resources.
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Michael Patton, in his 1997 book Utilization-Focused Evaluation, describes the process this way: “Utilization-focused program evaluation (as opposed to program evaluation in general) is evaluation done for and with specific, intended primary users for specific, intended uses.”
The evaluation plan UpFront helps you create at the beginning of a project includes specific steps to gather information from program participants. Just as important, it contains a description of how we will gather information from stakeholders and how we will involve them in the process.
“Utilization-focused program evaluation (as opposed to program evaluation in general) is evaluation done for and with specific, intended primary users for specific, intended uses.”
—Michael Patton
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