Evaluating researcher-stakeholder engagements

One of the aims of KTNET Africa is to evaluate the KT effects across the network so as to identify and document best practices. Evaluation of events gives a chance to researchers to quickly understand whether awareness and access to evidence improved service delivery. In addition, evaluation of events helps researchers gain an insight into the usefulness of an event. Results from the evaluation are useful in planning future engagements and guiding researchers improve stakeholder experience.

Evaluation criteria

The evaluation categories have been chosen based on the aim of most KT stakeholder engagement events

1. Stimulating debate or new thinking
2. Influencing (the wider debate or stakeholders)
3. Convening and networking
4. Raising awareness and profile

Deciding the right questions to ask

To measure the success of stakeholder engagements and gather sufficient information to plan future similar events, evaluation questions have been designed to suit the four categories above

Sample questionnaire for evaluating stakeholder engagements

Name of event:………………………………………

Date:…………………………………………………….

1. What has emerged as the most important key issue during the meeting?
2. On a scale of 1-5, to what extent were the discussions or the research findings presented relevant to the decisions you make at your work place?

3. On a scale of 1-5, to what extent were the research findings presented seem critical to you?

4. On a scale of 1-5, to what extent do you agree with the evidence presented?

5. On a scale of 1-5, to what extent did this meeting help you build new partnerships?   

6. Which other stakeholder would we need to invite for this kind of engagement?

Name  (i)………………………………………..                Institution (i)……………………………………                                                                                             

          (ii)……………………………………….                                 (ii)………………………………………

          (iii)………………………………………                                 (ii)………………………………………

Resources

1. http://onthinktanks.org/2015/02/09/how-on-earth-do-you-measure-the-impact-of-your-events/?shared=email&msg=fail

2. How to evaluate events- http://www.successfulmeetings.com/Strategy/Meeting-Strategies/How-to-Evaluate-Events/