Measuring Evaluation Capacity—Results and Implications of a Danish Study

Abstract

Evaluation capacity building (ECB) has become an area in the evaluation field that is attracting both scholarly attention and the practical work of evaluators. Despite some recent contributions, differing conceptions still exist concerning what constitutes ECB, let alone the nature of the capacity being built. Responding to an earlier call on the need for conceptual clarity regarding evaluation capacity (EC), this article discusses a model and a measurement tool used to map EC in Danish public sector organizations. Using empirical evidence as its basis, this article discusses the strengths and limitations of the conceptual model in relation to its face, content, and construct validity. Finally, the article discusses the implications arising from empirical findings and recent theoretical developments and suggests potential steps for improving conceptual clarity in the future.

Construction of Indicators of the Self-evaluation Capacity Building through Focused Group for Technical High Schools in Taiwan

“…It is found in the literature review that there are 5 theories of evaluation capacity building: evaluation capacity building pathway model (ECBP) [7], evaluation capacity building measure model (ECBM) [8], evaluation capacity building of multidisciplinary model (ECBMP) [9], integrate model of evaluation capacity building (IECB) [10], and the expanded IECB model (EIECB) [10].…”

“…1. Nielsen, Lemirec, and Skov (2011) presented Evaluation Capacity Building Measure Model (ECBM) [8]. Since then, the Evaluation Capacity Building (ECB) has become a practical model, which attracts scholars' attention, for evaluators in evaluation field.…”

Exploring organizational capacity in a Sport for Development and Peace setting.

“…The findings of this study highlighted the considerable differences in evaluation capacity of nonprofit organizations. Thus, nonprofit managers need to be aware of the different aspects of evaluation capacity (Nielsen, Lemire, & Skov, 2011). It is important for these leaders to assess their organizations' strengths and weaknesses to increase their evaluation capacity for financial sustainability and increased organizational capacity.…”

“…Thus, capacity building is another crucial aspect of planning and development capacity (Nielsen et al, 2011). In her investigation of the return on investment of a five-year capacity-building program among 125 small, volunteer-driven nonprofits, Sobeck (2008) found a capacity-building program in Detroit resulted in significant increases in planning, grant writing, and use of evaluation strategies.…”

“…These results indicate the potential increase in organizational capacity among grassroots nonprofit organizations from a capacity-building program. At the same time, it is imperative to recognize the growing discrepancies in conceptualizations of evaluation capacity that consequently results in diverse capacity-building programs (Nielsen et al, 2011).…”