An evaluation (whether it is externally done, or based on self-assessment) usually reveals a mixture of strengths and areas for improvement. We help you prioritise so you set yourselves a manageable plan of action.

1. How to cost an evaluation
Many voluntary and community organisations (VCOs) want to evaluate their work, so as to learn more about their effectiveness and to satisfy the requirement of funders. Often self-evaluation is appropriate, but sometimes an external evaluation – undertaken by an external and independent evaluator – is more appropriate.

Many VCOs that consider employing an external evaluator are concerned or unsure about the costs involved. This guidance paper has been written to help voluntary organisations and funders estimate the costs of carrying out an evaluation.

2. What to include in an evaluation brief
When commissioning an evaluation, it is helpful to write an evaluation brief. This is a short document – perhaps two to four sides of A4 – outlining what the consultants need to know. This can then be sent to any consultants being asked to tender for the work.

Writing an evaluation brief means that the proposal you get from a consultant is more likely to have all the information you need to be able to make a decision. It also helps the consultants to tailor the work to your needs.

This paper provides guidance on what you might cover in an evaluation brief. However, consider also talking your brief through with an evaluator to help you get it right.

3. Key Terms and Definitions
This is a guide to the key terms that voluntary organisations will come across when dealing with issues of monitoring, evaluation and quality assurance. It is not intended to be a comprehensive list, but rather a selection of basic technical terms that are used in voluntary sector management. The definitions represent those commonly used by CES trainers and consultants and are based on established research and expertise in these fields.