Designing Influential Evaluations Session 1 Introduction Uganda Evaluation Week - Pre-Conference Workshop 19 th and 20 th May 2014

Workshop contents 1. Introduction – meeting the participants & brainstorming topics & interests 2. Choosing relevant evaluation topics and getting the timing right 3. Evaluation design – understanding the logic 4. Approaches, methods and tools 5. Quality of evidence – measuring impact 6. Analysis and presentation 7. Commissioning evaluations (terms of reference and teams) 8. Wrap-up, loose ends 2

What is influence? In small groups, discuss with your neighbour what you understand by the idea of being able to influence by evaluation. Prepare to present your ideas to plenary. 3

Types of influence over policy? Only a limited number of ‘types’ of outcome that public influence is equipped to deliver: ◦ Changing perceptions – core feature of the role of evidence ◦ Setting an agenda by reframing the way an issue is debated and creating pressure for change ◦ Building networks that support delivery of change. ◦ Developing capacity within organisations to allow them to understand and respond to an issue. ◦ Changing institutions – influencing policy, strategy, resource allocation within a set of organisations (both government and non-government sectors) 4

Typology of influence over institutions Shift in institutional norms – how the institution operates Strengthened organizational capacity – people and systems Strengthened alliances – working in partnerships Strengthened base of support - stakeholders Improved policies Changes in impact 5

What makes an evaluation influential? In small groups, discuss with your neighbour what aspects of planning or implementing an evaluation might affect the influence it can have. Prepare to present your ideas to plenary. 6

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