Developmental Evaluation

This book from a leading expert of development evaluation provides the monitoring and evaluation foundation for an Emergent Theory of Change. Developmental evaluation (DE) offers a comprehensive approach to providing feedback loops in supporting social innovations, working in partnership with program decision makers. In this book, Patton shows how to conduct evaluations within a DE framework. He draws on theory and research on complex dynamic systems, uncertainty, nonlinearity, and emergence. He illustrates how DE can be used for a range of purposes: assessment of the complexity of social context and goals; program design and initiation; ongoing program development; adapting effective principles of practice to local contexts; generating innovations and taking them to scale; and facilitating rapid response in crisis situations.

The book presents extensive case examples, research, stories, cartoons, in a clear writing style, "closer look" sidebars, and summary tables. Essential guidance is provided for making evaluations useful, practical, and credible in support of emergent social change.