An evaluation plan is a written roadmap that sets out how a program or project will be assessed over time. Rather than waiting until the end, this document guides the evaluation process from the outset, clarifying what will be measured, how it will be measured, and who will use the results.
Key Components of an Evaluation Plan #
- Purpose and Scope: Defines why the evaluation is being done and what parts of the program are under review. It addresses which decisions the evaluation aims to inform.
- Evaluation Questions and Criteria: Specifies the questions to be answered and the standards or benchmarks for judging success.
- Methods and Data Collection: Lays out how data will be gathered (surveys, interviews, observations), what existing sources can be used, and how analysis will be conducted.
- Timeline and Work Plan: Includes key milestones such as when data will be collected, when analysis will happen, and when findings will be reported.
- Resources and Responsibilities: Details who will do what, how much time and money the evaluation needs, and what tools or expertise are required.
Benefits of an Evaluation Plan #
An evaluation plan promotes clarity and alignment; it makes sure stakeholders know the evaluation’s purpose and how it will happen. It also supports accountability and efficiency by laying out timelines and roles.
Challenges of an Evaluation Plan #
Designing a solid evaluation plan can be time-intensive and requires negotiation among stakeholders to agree on priorities, methods, and resource allocation. If the plan stays rigid, it may struggle to adapt to changing project conditions.
A thoughtfully developed evaluation plan is more than a checklist—it’s a strategic tool that strengthens both the usefulness and credibility of an evaluation. By defining purpose, methods, timing, and responsibilities ahead of time, organizations set themselves up for meaningful learning and improved decision-making.
List of recommended resources #
For a broad overview #
Elements of an Evaluation Plan
This post by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (Department of Health and Human Services) discusses the elements of an evaluation plan, the purpose of evaluation, what are evaluation questions and criteria along with how to collect data for an evaluation.
Writing an evaluation framework or plan
This handout by Queensland Treasury gives a brief about writing an evaluation plan. It begins by first explaining what an evaluation plan and framework is and when one should use it and then outlines the similarities and differences between an evaluation framework and an evaluation plan.
For in-depth understanding #
Developing an Effective Evaluation Plan: Setting the course for effective program evaluation
This workbook developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Office on Smoking and Health (OSH) and Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity (DNPAO) is part of a series of technical assistance workbooks for use by program managers, and evaluators. It offers guidance and facilitates capacity building on a wide range of evaluation topics.
This guide developed by UNDP Independent Evaluation Office gives an in-depth understanding of the steps of developing an evaluation plan, as well as providing templates for designing an evaluation plan and monitoring compliance.
Case study #
This paper by Timothy Roberton and Talata Sawadogo-Lewis proposes a step-by-step approach to utilizing M&E tools to their fullest potential, making the case for a simpler, more coherent approach to M&E.
Developing Your Evaluation Plans: A Critical Component of Public Health Program Infrastructure
This article by S. Rene Lavinghouze and Kimberly Snyder discusses how to develop an evaluation plan for public health program infrastructures. The authors have used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) “Framework for Program Evaluation in Public Health” as a guide for developing an evaluation plan.
