Evaluation planning
Logic models, theories of change, questions, measures, governance, and realistic data-collection plans.
Program and service evaluation
Know what is working—and what to improve.
MCRC Health helps organizations evaluate implementation, participant experience, reach, outcomes, and the conditions shaping results.
Capabilities
Evaluation designed for the decision.
Process evaluation
Implementation, reach, fidelity, adaptations, participant experience, barriers, and facilitators.
Outcome evaluation
Proportionate designs to assess change, contribution, variation, and meaningful outcomes.
Performance measurement
Practical indicators, reporting frameworks, dashboards, and interpretation for leaders and funders.
Direct answer
What does a program evaluation consultant do?
A program evaluation consultant helps define evaluation questions, develop a logic model and measures, select appropriate methods, collect and analyze data, and translate findings into practical recommendations.
The aim is not only to judge whether a program “worked.” A useful evaluation explains how it was delivered, who it reached, what changed, why results varied, and what the organization should do next.
Typical deliverables
Clear outputs for real audiences.
Evaluation framework
Questions, indicators, methods, roles, timelines, and reporting plan.
Data collection tools
Surveys, interview guides, extraction templates, and tracking tools.
Analysis and reporting
Transparent findings, limitations, integrated interpretation, and recommendations.
Decision briefing
Focused presentation or workshop to help leaders act on the evidence.
Questions
Program evaluation in practical terms.
When should program evaluation begin?
Evaluation is strongest when planning begins before or early in implementation, but an existing program can still be evaluated using available data, stakeholder input, and a focused prospective plan.
Can a small nonprofit conduct a credible evaluation?
Yes. The design can be scaled to the decision, resources, participant burden, and available data. A focused, transparent evaluation is more useful than an overbuilt plan the organization cannot sustain.
Is evaluation the same as academic research?
No. Evaluation usually focuses on the merit, implementation, outcomes, or improvement of a specific program. Research generally aims to produce knowledge that extends beyond one program or setting, although the methods can overlap.
Need evidence about a program or service?
Start with the decision, reporting need, or uncertainty you are trying to resolve.
Discuss the evaluation