Begleitforschung

Begleitforschung is a form of research conducted parallel to a project, program, or policy implementation with the aim of monitoring processes, documenting how activities are carried out, and providing timely, evidence-based recommendations. It is intended to accompany the project from planning through implementation to completion, supporting learning and adjustment.

The focus of Begleitforschung is often on process and context as well as intermediate results, rather than solely on final outcomes. It seeks to understand how interventions are applied, which resources are used, how stakeholders experience the program, and what barriers or enabling conditions arise. The findings are meant to inform decision-makers during the implementation phase.

Methods used in Begleitforschung are typically mixed, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data collection can include interviews, surveys, document analysis, observations, and administrative records. The work often features iterative reporting, ongoing feedback loops, and sometimes participatory or co-production elements with implementers and beneficiaries.

Applications of Begleitforschung span public policy, social programs, education reforms, regional development, and technology or infrastructure projects. It is commonly funded by government ministries, foundations, or European funds and serves to improve effectiveness, efficiency, and alignment with policy objectives.

In relation to evaluation, Begleitforschung is usually described as formative or process-oriented evaluation designed to support learning and adaptation during implementation, rather than as a solely summative assessment at the end of a project. It faces challenges such as ensuring independence, maintaining methodological rigor, and balancing timely reporting with thorough analysis.