What should be the primary goal of an evaluation?

The primary goal of an evaluation is to improve the program and its outcomes. Evaluations are designed to assess how well a program is functioning and to identify areas for enhancement. By focusing on improvement, evaluations can help stakeholders understand the effectiveness of various components of the program and make informed decisions about necessary changes. This process is integral to ensuring that the services provided meet the needs of participants and achieve the intended objectives.

While comparing programs for funding purposes, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing financial reports are important aspects of program management, they are typically secondary to the overarching aim of using evaluation as a tool for growth and enhancement of program effectiveness. The insights gained from focusing on improvement can lead to better service delivery and higher satisfaction among program participants.