evaluating advocacy: a model for public policy initiatives
TRANSCRIPT
Slide 2Innovation Network, Inc.
Who We Are: Innovation Network National nonprofit organization Committed to evaluation as a tool for
empowerment Work with nonprofits at the grassroots level Build evaluation capacity of nonprofits and
funders so they can better serve their communities
Practice a participatory approach
Innovation Network (202) 728-07271625 K St. NW www.innonet.orgWashington, DC 20006 [email protected]
Slide 3Innovation Network, Inc.
Overview/Agenda
Discuss challenges inherent to advocacy evaluation
Review traditional evaluation models and their fit for evaluating advocacy
Share lessons learned from our work Evaluation planning Data collection strategies Feedback loops and reflection
Shift in emphasis
Slide 4Innovation Network, Inc.
A Case Study
Coalition for Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CCIR)
Evaluation funded by The Atlantic Philanthropies
Began the evaluation in Fall 2005
Slide 6Innovation Network, Inc.
The Challenges
I continue to find my greatest pleasure, and so my reward, in the work that
precedes what the world calls success.-- Thomas Edison
Slide 7Innovation Network, Inc.
The Challenges
Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in
life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.
-- Booker T. Washington
Slide 8Innovation Network, Inc.
The Challenges
Ability is nothing without opportunity.-- Napoleon Bonaparte
Slide 9Innovation Network, Inc.
The Challenges
If you don't risk anything, you risk even more.
-- Erica Jong
Slide 11Innovation Network, Inc.
Continuous Learning Cycle
Logic Model
Analysis, Reflection &Improvemen
t
Evaluation
Planning
Data Collection
Slide 13Innovation Network, Inc.
Chain of Outcomes
Residents improve basic job skills and
identify jobs & career paths of interest
KNOWLEDGE/ ATTITUDE
Participants use post-training services, e.g. job placement, child care, transportation
BEHAVIOR
Closer in Time Easier to Measure
More Attributable to Project
Increased number of community residents obtain and retain jobs that support families
CONDITION
More Distant in TimeHarder to Measure
Less Attributable to Project
Slide 15Innovation Network, Inc.
Continuous Learning Cycle
Planning
Real-Time Feedback
and Reflection
Data Collectio
n
Slide 16Innovation Network, Inc.
8-Step Advocacy Evaluation Plan1. Locate issue on the
policymaking continuum
2. Identify type of policy change
3. Understand role of the group/network in policymaking
4. Clarify dimensions of success relevant to stakeholders
5. Develop chain of outcomes, leading to the intended change
6. Identify indicators & measurement systems
7. Identify most effective strategies
8. Prioritize
Slide 17Innovation Network, Inc.
Spheres of Influence
Decision
Makers
General Public
Beneficiaries, Stakeholder Communities
Competing Organizations
Organization and Allies
Thinktanks and Research
Institutions
Media
Business and Industry
Key Players:
© Innovation Network, 2006
Slide 18Innovation Network, Inc.
Continuous Learning Cycle
Planning
Real-Time Feedback
and Reflection
Data Collectio
n
Slide 19Innovation Network, Inc.
Data Collection Strategies Mixed-method approach
Deeper focus on “real-time” data Observations/monitoring Frequent opportunities for data collection
De-brief protocol Opportunity windows/intense periods Capturing multiple perspectives
Slide 20Innovation Network, Inc.
Continuous Learning Cycle
Planning
Real-Time Feedback
and Reflection
Data Collectio
n
Slide 21Innovation Network, Inc.
Reporting and Feedback Loops
Frequent, informal reporting Learning briefs; research Approximate “real-time” Transparency/inclusion Face-to-face
Slide 26Innovation Network, Inc.
Advocacy Evaluation Project
Online resources Indicators for advocacy Piloting tools Advisory committee
www.innonet.org/advocacy
Slide 27Innovation Network, Inc.
Any Questions?
www.innonet.org
Jennifer Bagnell [email protected]
Ehren D. [email protected]