How do you conduct a program analysis?

1 Define the purpose

The first step is to define the purpose of your program analysis. Why do you want to conduct it? What questions do you want to answer? What are your goals and objectives? How will you use the results? The purpose will guide the scope, design, and methods of your program analysis. It will also help you to communicate your expectations and needs to your stakeholders, such as funders, partners, beneficiaries, and staff.

2 Review the program logic model

The second step is to review the program logic model, which is a visual representation of how your program works. It shows the inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impacts of your program, and the assumptions and external factors that influence them. The program logic model helps you to clarify the logic and assumptions behind your program, and to identify the indicators and data sources that you will use to measure your program performance and impact.

3 Select the evaluation approach

The third step is to select the evaluation approach that best suits your purpose, resources, and context. There are different types of evaluation approaches, such as formative, summative, process, outcome, impact, and developmental. Each approach has its own strengths, limitations, and implications for data collection and analysis. You should consider the following factors when choosing your evaluation approach: the stage of your program development, the availability and quality of data, the level of stakeholder involvement, and the ethical and practical issues.

4 Collect and analyze data

The fourth step is to collect and analyze data that will answer your evaluation questions and provide evidence for your program performance and impact. You should use a mix of quantitative and qualitative data, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations, documents, and records. You should also use appropriate and rigorous methods of data analysis, such as descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, thematic analysis, content analysis, and case studies. You should ensure that your data collection and analysis are valid, reliable, and ethical.

5 Interpret and report findings

The fifth step is to interpret and report your findings in a clear, concise, and credible way. You should use data visualization techniques, such as charts, graphs, tables, and maps, to present your findings in a user-friendly and engaging way. You should also use narrative techniques, such as stories, quotes, and examples, to illustrate your findings and highlight the human aspects of your program. You should explain the meaning and implications of your findings, and provide recommendations for action.

6 Disseminate and use results

The sixth step is to disseminate and use your results to inform and improve your program. You should tailor your dissemination strategies to your target audiences, such as funders, partners, beneficiaries, and staff. You should use different formats and channels, such as reports, presentations, newsletters, social media, and websites, to share your results and lessons learned. You should also use your results to celebrate your achievements, identify your gaps, and plan your next steps.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?