Evaluations of Collaboratives

The evaluation process consists of an operations analysis, network analysis (relationships among organizations and to the network), and progress + impact analysis. The findings from the analyses are distilled into recommendations that are used to strengthen a collaborative’s operations, improve the health of the collaborative, and increase progress and impact. It is recommended that an evaluation is conducted once a year with results compared to prior years to best evaluate the growth and impact of a collaborative. At the initial onset of collaboration, only the network analysis may be needed.

Operations Analysis

The operations of a collaborative involve the structure and processes used to establish and guide a common agenda, measure progress and impact, manage membership and decision-making, align and coordinate action, engage stakeholders, and provide backbone support.

Network Analysis

The collaborative itself is composed of a network- the relationships among organizations and the relationship of each organization to the collaborative. Both the quality and quantity of these relationships are analyzed to determine the health of the collaborative. Partner organizations take an online network survey to gather input for the network analysis. The survey results include an assessment of contributions from organizations; perceptions of desired outcomes and success of the collaborative; and the level of value (power/influence; level of involvement; resource contribution) and trust (reliability; mission congruence; open to discussion) among partner organizations.

Progress + Impact Analysis

To assess progress and impact over time, a process of measurement is needed in which shared metrics are established, monitored, and analyzed. At whatever stage of development with measurement practices, the collaborative will be assessed on its use of metrics, collection of data, and any data that can be used to assess progress and impact related to the collaborative’s vision and goals.

Recommendations and Report

Taken together, these three interrelated analyses provide a roadmap for the future of a collaborative. The recommendations are organized around Connected to Place’s Place-Based Collaboration framework. The evaluation report includes an executive summary, a description of the methods used, the three analyses, and the recommendations. Reports are highly readable and usable with tables, graphs, charts, and succinct text. 

Next Steps

We recommend a planning session or retreat to translate the findings and recommendations into the adaptation of the collaborative’s strategy, refined action, and increased impact for the collaborative.