The ABCs of Evaluation: Timeless Techniques for Program and Project Managers (Jossey-Bass Business and Management Series)

"I've been looking for this book for years.... Anyone who needs to understand the philosophy, steps, and processes of evaluation will find this the perfect book."

--Carroll A. Londoner, professor and core-coordinator, The Adult Education and HRD Program, School of Education, Virginia Commonwealth University

"Written in a clear and engaging style that will connect with every audience, The ABCs of Evaluation will surely become each reader's foremost resource for instruction, guidance, and assurance during any foray into the intriguing and vital process of evaluation."

--Beverly McMurtry Grissom, president, North Florida Community College, and past president, American Association for Adult and Continuing Education

"Anyone who needs to understand the component parts of an evaluation design will benefit from this book. The ABCs of Evaluation provided me with my own personal evaluation professor, illustrating how to design, conduct, demystify, and understand the evaluation process."

--Marc Potish, senior coordinator for professional development, CREC Division of Staff Development, Technical Assistance and Brokering Services

Too often, managers who face downsizing or reorganization must conduct program evaluations without having any background or formal training. This comprehensive resource is a straightforward guide to the concepts and methods of evaluation. It explains each component of the evaluation design--first detailing principles and theories and then showing how to apply them in real-life situations.

Written for any program type or setting, The ABCs of Evaluation shows how to select the evaluation team and how to deal with multiple goals and objectives--including those of the organization, the staff, and the client. Authors John Boulmetis and Phyllis Dutwin describe different evaluation models, illustrate the circumstances under which each model can be used, and offer tips on identifying data sources and collecting the data itself. They also provide a sample report that focuses on the needs of program stakeholders. Throughout the book, there are charts, graphs, models, and lists to help organize, extend, and facilitate the understanding of each evaluation concept.