Purposeful Evaluation

A Practical Guide to Design, Development and Delivery

David Parsons

• Publisher: Policy Press
• Year: 2025
• eBook ISBN: 9781447376149
• Edition: 1
• Topic: Social Sciences
• Subtopic: Public Policy
• Index: Social Sciences

This book offers a practical guide for those transitioning from research to systematic evaluation.

With growing demand for reliable evaluation across government, charities and other institutions, many new evaluators lack necessary knowledge and skills. This book addresses those gaps, offering step-by-step guidance on designing and delivering fit-for-purpose evaluations to maximise their use and utility. Taking a holistic approach to the evaluation journey, it covers key challenges such as engaging stakeholders, managing expectations and handling resource pressures.

With real-world case studies and practical tools, this is an essential resource for practitioners across public, academic and voluntary sectors.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Title Page
• Copyright Page
• Table of Contents
• List of Figures, Tables and Boxes
• List of Evaluation Examples
• About the Author
• Acknowledgements
• Preface
• Part I Starting points
• Part II Setting the foundations
• Part III Choosing the right method
• Part IV Putting it in place: preparation into delivery
• Part V Presenting and mobilising evidence
• Notes
• Bibliography
• Index