Project evaluation is a key element in assessing whether and to what extent project objectives have been achieved. It is a process that allows us not only to evaluate the results, but also to understand what factors contributed to the success or failure of the project. It is important that each of our activities is completed with just an evaluation. Both internally (our team) and externally (the people participating in our activities).
Assessment of meeting external needs
This part of the evaluation focuses on assessing whether and how the project has responded to the identified needs of the community or target group. For this purpose, the opinions of the stakeholders themselves will be helpful in the first place. This means that it is a good idea to send an evaluation questionnaire to those participating in the activities and remind them several times to fill it out. It is best if it contains both closed questions about such issues as, for example, the overall evaluation of the project (1-5), the atmosphere during the project (1-5), the substantive preparation of the presenters (1-5), etc. It is also no less important to give a minimum of one open-ended question and ask about:
The feelings of those who participated,
suggestions for improvements
Note: A survey sent out a few days after the activity will not give us a complete picture. It is best if you make it available to those participating while the activity is still going on and give them a moment to fill it out as part of the evaluation session. Moreover, remember to supplement the information you get from it with "live" feedback. Methods that you can use during such a session can be found here:
Social activities should be aimed primarily at the target groups, and they should be the ones who are empowered as much as possible during the activities. This is why what was described in the previous step - collecting feedback from them - is so important. Does this mean that our feelings and conclusions from the process of preparing and implementing activities are not important? Of course they are! Because of this, the next thing to do after surveying the satisfaction of the target groups is to reflect on our satisfaction (or dissatisfaction) with the entire process. To do this, it is important to meet with the project team after the activity and answer some questions together:
what was great and what is worth continuing in the future.
What new skills or knowledge did the team gain during the project?
Did the project improve collaboration within the team?
What internal resources (e.g., financial, human, technological) have been strengthened as a result of the project?
What internal challenges were identified during the project and how did the team deal with them?
What internal challenges were identified during the project and how did the team deal with them?
Has the team achieved personal or professional goals related to the project?
How has the project affected team morale and motivation?
What lessons have been learned from the project that may be useful in the future?
Team evaluation in the relational and communication dimensions is also important. You should openly tell each other what worked and what didn't work in internal communication. For this purpose, we propose this method of giving feedback:
Note: If you are implementing a longer project, consisting of several activities then it is worthwhile for you to conduct such internal team evaluation sessions more often than just once at the end of the project. It could be, for example, once every two weeks, when discussing the progress of the project. Remember that nothing helps to prove the project to the end as much as a good team atmosphere. This does not mean that you should avoid conflicts at all costs. This is actually not feasible, because conflict is a natural part of the group process. What is important is to be able to resolve this conflict quickly and come to an agreement, and this cannot be achieved without open communication of your needs and objections in a safe space where no one is offended at anyone. In one sentence: Stop small fires right away, before the fire takes over a larger space.
LESSONS LEARNED
Formulating lessons for the future helps in planning and implementing future projects. It allows you to apply the knowledge gained to the continuous improvement of processes and activities.
The process of formulating conclusions
Conduct a brainstorming session with the team to discuss what went well and what could be done better.
Identify key lessons from the project and plan how they can be applied in the future.
Identify what changes in procedures, planning or strategy can make future projects more efficient.
And most important: SAVE SOMEWHERE EVERYTHING YOU SET UP SO YOU CAN EASILY RETURN TO IT.
ON THIS PAGE
Assessment of meeting external needs
Assessment of satisfaction of internal needs
Lessons for the future
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