This is what evaluation can be.
Effective evaluation can only be performed when the right questions are being asked and the right information gathered. We believe that what is “right” can only be understood in the culture and context of each project and each community. Our independent spirit gives us the courage to say, “Is this truly what needs to be looked at? Is there more we could learn?” And our character gives us the wisdom to listen.
With understanding comes knowledge, and with knowledge comes power: the power to see, the power to help, and the power to change. And for us, the sign of a good evaluation is one where knowledge can be turned into action.
our goals
Be Flexible
We have a toolbox of methodologies to choose from and the experience to effectively wield them. Our clients often have a broad range of research questions to answer, so we aim to combine methods to obtain the unique solution our clients need.
Engage Stakeholders
Our evaluation approach is informed by all the people with a stake in the work being undertaken — especially those who are most impacted by the program or policy.
Value Efficiency
When designing evaluations, we consider the constraints of time, money, and capacity that organizations often face to optimize the reach and impact of research.
Focus on Cultural Responsiveness
From the first step of the evaluation process to the last, we focus on equity and strive to embed the voices of those who have been historically marginalized.
Our Advantage
Experienced guides for constructive journeys
Third-party evaluations can be beneficial for all organizations because they provide expertise on processes that can be misunderstood or difficult to navigate. We help our clients plan, learn, and ultimately make decisions. We ensure their eyes remain focused on the big picture while we investigate the details. And we offer healthy feedback so better systems, services, and programs are built to truly serve individuals and communities.
our methodologies & services
Evaluation
We assess client needs to create a custom plan that fits the context. We use proven strategies that work to focus on getting the right information and data to achieve actionable results.
- Formative and Summative Evaluation
- Impact Evaluation
- Process and Outcome Evaluation
- Developmental Evaluation
- Participatory Action Research
- Logic Modeling
- Theory of Change and Action
- Principles-Based Evaluation
Data Collection & Analysis
We customize every evaluation with a mixed-methods approach, providing for unique, actionable results.
Qualitative:
- Interviews
- Focus Groups
- Asset Mapping
- Bilingual Data Collection (English, Spanish)
Quantitative:
- Advanced Survey Analysis
- GIS Mapping
- Social Network Analysis
- Data Visualization
- Logistic and Linear Regression Analysis
Strategic Planning
We are experts at turning data into an executable plan for change. We collaboratively build plans with a focus on the long-term impact to set our clients up for success.
- Ecosystem Assessment
- Evaluation Planning
- Situation Analysis
- Needs Assessment
- Literature Review
- Visioning
- Capacity Building
- Equity Planning
- Leadership Retreats
Facilitation
We coordinate with stakeholders and collaborators at all phases of a project to ensure the process runs smoothly, and results are meaningful and useful.
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Learning Collaboratives
- Community of Practice Models
- Adaptive Action
- Rapid Cycle Reporting
- Project Management
- Theory of Change Development
Engagements...
and counting
629
Hours of interviews
8,168
Stakeholders engaged
87
Communities we’ve served
50
Nonprofits we’ve worked with