What makes a good evaluation question?

A good evaluation question is characterized by its clarity, focus, and relevance to stakeholders. This means that the question is specific enough to guide the evaluation process effectively and is designed to meet the needs and interests of those involved in or affected by the program or intervention being evaluated.

A clear question helps ensure that the evaluation can produce actionable insights that stakeholders can use to make informed decisions. Focusing on relevant aspects ensures that the evaluation addresses the most pressing issues and concerns of those invested in the outcomes. Overall, an evaluation question that embodies these characteristics is more likely to yield meaningful and applicable results that can ultimately improve programs and services.

In contrast, a question that is complex and multifaceted might lead to confusion or difficulty in navigating the evaluation, making it less effective. Vague questions could result in interpretations that don’t provide the necessary specifics, ultimately leading to inconclusive findings. Finally, prioritizing the interests of evaluators could skew the evaluation away from serving the stakeholders' needs, undermining the evaluation's usefulness and credibility.