After the project is implemented, there is obviously a need to understand if the key objectives were achieved and how effectively. Through project evaluation, valuable knowledge is revealed and new lessons are learned.
Moreover, we take into consideration the social and environmental impacts of the projects. Our experts have deep experience in project evaluation assignments.
Although project evaluation is generally treated as an exercise for the project closing phase, it plays a central role at all phases of project lifecycle.
Evaluation as part of Managing for Impact
Measuring social impact is becoming an imperative area for not-for-profit organizations addressing social problems.
Social impact relates to the long-term positive changes for individuals, communities, and society as a whole, and which results from the activities or services provided by development-sector organizations.
More About Project Evaluation
What is the difference between project evaluation and lessons learned review?
After the project is completed, you will need to conduct a final evaluation. You may think this is a part of a lessons learned review, but the two are different processes:
- A lessons learned review is a process, where all project stakeholders provide their comments on what went well and what did not. The project manager collects and studies this information to improve how future projects are to be delivered. It is a key part of project closure, however, it is not a formal evaluation.
- A project evaluation is mainly about figures; it is a more in-depth process. During the project evaluation, the project manager looks at the project schedule and budget, quality and client or other stakeholder satisfaction, achievement of the project goals, and so on. The final project evaluation report can be included in the project closure document set.
Why measure social impact?
In professional literature, you may find many reasons to measure social impact. Here, we present a few:
- Accountability. You can report back to the investors or donors on time with quality reports.
- Fundraising. You can use the strength of your impact measurement, and results, to attract new funding.
- Collaboration. You can use findings from your impact measurement to share with other organizations in the sector and collaborate with them.
- Marketing & Communication. You have powerful data/stories to use to promote your organization.
- Learning & Improving. You can use findings from your impact measurement to improve your activities, leading to better results for your participants.