TERMINOLOGY
Refer to the following definitions and explanations for vocabulary inquiries
| Evaluation Plan |
| An outline of the evaluation process for a program. The evaluation plan includes a program’s outcomes, the intended means of measuring the outcomes, specifics about the information that will be collected, and the target achievement levels. An evaluation plan is often represented by a Logic Model. |
| GPRA: Government Performance and Results Act |
| The Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 seeks to shift the focus of government decision-making and accountability away from a preoccupation with the activities that are undertaken - such as grants dispensed or inspections made - to a focus on the results of those activities, such as real gains in employability, safety, responsiveness, or program quality. Under the Act, agencies are to develop multiyear strategic plans, annual performance plans, and annual performance reports. (GAO) |
| Indicator |
| Measurable evidence of progress in or achievement of a specific outcome. |
| Instrument |
| A device that records, measures or controls for progress or achievement of one or more outcome(s). An instrument is a means of data collection, such as a forum, questionnaire, survey or checklist, to which an indicator can be applied to measure the achievement level of a program. |
| Outcome Based Evaluation (OBE) |
| A systematic evaluation that focuses on achievement rather than effort. OBE determines the degree to which a program's outcomes, or goals, have been achieved. |
| Outcome |
| Synonymous with goal. Outcomes are recognizable improvements in behavior, knowledge, status, or ability achieved through program participation. An outcome is what a program is meant to accomplish. |
| Results-Focused Evaluation |
See outcome-based evaluation. Evaluation of achievement rather than effort. |
| Stakeholder |
| Individuals, agencies, competitors, funders, community groups and professional affiliates that may either influence or be influenced by an organization's initiative. These influences relate to program services, program audiences, outcome achievement, and data reporting capabilities. |
| Strategic Planning |
| A long range decision making and planning process that address organization mission and success. Strategic planning includes defining the organization's mission or purpose, setting appropriate goals, and developing strategies for those goals. (more ) |
| Tools |
| A type of instrument that can be used for purposes of gathering and analyzing data as well as reporting results. Tools specifically offer a tangible quality that separate them from instruments that do not. |
