What is a program evaluation?

A program evaluation is a method for collecting, analyzing, and using the information to answer questions about the effectiveness and efficiency of projects, policies, and programs of a foundation, corporation, or organization. The primary purpose of program evaluations is to enhance decision-making.

Program evaluations access programs to ensure they are running efficiently. Although the exact procedures for program evaluations vary by company and specific needs, program evaluations generally include assessing things such as needs assessments, accreditation, cost/benefit analyses, effectiveness, efficiency, processes, and outcomes.