Evalueringsfase

Evalueringsfasen, or evaluation phase, is a stage in a project or program life cycle where outcomes, processes and impacts are assessed against predefined criteria. It may occur at the end of implementation (summative evaluation) or during the project (formative evaluation).

Purpose

The phase aims to judge relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact and sustainability; to provide evidence for decisions on continuation, scaling, modification or termination; and to support accountability and learning.

Process

Key activities include: defining evaluation questions and indicators; selecting data sources; designing data collection methods; gathering and analyzing data; interpreting findings; comparing results with baselines or targets; identifying lessons learned and risks; preparing an evaluation report and presenting findings; and making recommendations and deciding next steps.

Methods

Evaluations use quantitative approaches (surveys, performance metrics, administrative data) and qualitative approaches (interviews, focus groups, document analysis). Mixed-methods designs are common. Attention is given to data quality, validity and ethical considerations, including informed consent and confidentiality.

Outputs and use

Typical outputs are an evaluation report, executive summary and an action plan with recommendations. The results inform planning, budgeting, policy decisions and stakeholder communication, and contribute to organizational learning and future project design.

Contexts

Evalueringsfasen is widely applied in public sector programs, development and aid projects, education initiatives, and IT or product development, among other fields. It supports accountability, evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement.