Formative | - A type of process evaluation that assesses how the intervention / programme can be improved as it is being implemented
- Takes place before the project starts and throughout pilot phase to inform implementation.
- Shows what worked well and why, and identify challenges to capture lessons learned (continually improving)
- Utilises evaluation theory e.g. Theory-of-Change; Realist Evaluation, Experience-Based Design, Critical Path etc.
- Helps to assess needs; clarify theory-of-change; to identify areas for shared learning and improvement
- Qualitative methods: Literature Review; Interviews; Focus Groups; Observation; Diaries; Questionnaires
- Service Improvement methods: Stakeholder Analysis; Logic Modelling; PDSA Cycles; Rapid Evaluation Cycles
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Process | - Assesses implementation and delivery of the initiative, and whether this was carried out as planned
- Takes place throughout the project implementation and delivery phase.
- Demonstrates to stakeholders that project objectives are being met
- Qualitative methods: Interviews; Focus Groups; Questionnaires
- Quantitative methods: Metrics, Benchmarking, quantifiable Performance, Financial, Service Usage data
- Service Improvement methods: PDSA Cycles; Rapid Evaluation Cycles
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Summative | - Was the project successful? Has the met its predefined aims and objectives?
- Looks at the outcomes (i.e. measures the changes that have occurred as a result of the programme) and/or impact (i.e. the longer, deeper, systemic changes).
- Demonstrates to stakeholders if project aims were met.
- Qualitative methods: Interviews; Focus Groups; Questionnaires
- Quantitative methods: Metrics, Benchmarking, quantifiable Performance, Financial, Service Usage data
- Can be Experimental (e.g. randomised controlled trial), Quasi-Experimental e.g. comparing before and after or use service Improvement methods: PDSA Cycles; Rapid Evaluation Cycles
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