People sometimes have negative perceptions about evaluation. Often, they’ve had bad experiences or find the process too constrictive or performative. I believe we can do evaluation differently. At the core of my approach is the belief that evaluation can be joyful, equitable, and creative. The following principles underpin all my engagements.
Research is a tool for social change
Having data that gets at the heart of an issue can be a catalyst for action. Information helps us be more informed about the current situation so we can be most effective in what we do next.
When aligned with purpose and vision, evaluation offers a process and methods for identifying and addressing local issues of concern. It is a vehicle for equity, humility, and social justice.
In my work, I see evaluation as a process that holds us accountable to our mission. Everything I do is designed to support the people and organizations working to address inequities and create social impact.
Not everyone has equitable access to information. Many times, the perspectives of those further from the center of power are not included or listened to.
At its best, evaluation invites all key people involved into a conversation about what is working and what needs to be improved. Data needs to be representative of the full range of experiences and perspectives in any community.
I focus on creating evaluation processes that are inclusive and reduce barriers to participation in order to gather the most comprehensive feedback from the right groups of people.
All voices need to be heard
What we focus on grows
Looking at what’s working well offers a sense of possibility and community, better promoting collective change.
Evaluation offers a way to identify and highlight the strengths of programs, organizations, and communities. The process also opens the door for talking about the places where things may need to be refined or improved.
My approach centers people working together toward a shared vision of the future. By keeping a focus on involving and uplifting all key people involved, evaluation can serve as a collaborative learning process.
There’s a lot of pressure to go at full speed all the time. And, if we never stop, we run the risk of making decisions from a place of reaction instead of with intention.
Evaluation is an opportunity to slow down, make space to think from a different perspective, engage with other possibilities, and plan for the future.
In my work, I focus on helping people and organizations build and sustain a practice of reflection in evaluation and leadership as a foundation for sustainability and wellness.
Reflection is an essential practice
Learning can be uncomfortable
Many times, people express worry and concern when starting this process. Are we doing it right? What if we don’t find positive results? Maybe we’re not ready?
My approach honors the vulnerability that can arise in a learning process. It can be uncomfortable to look at data and question what it might mean about the work.
As a facilitative guide, I acknowledge the discomfort and worry to help relieve the pressure to be perfect, and instead foster a culture of inquiry, reflection, and growth.
It takes people working in beloved community to create lasting change. Everyone has a role to play in advancing the work.
When done well, evaluation is built on a collective commitment to a process of learning from data. It requires mutual risk and shared responsibility.
To all my engagements, I bring a sense of curiosity and transparency. I invest in building collaborative partnerships grounded in listening, understanding, and trust.
Relationships are the cornerstone of purposeful work
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by Heart Light Digital 