What does an evaluator do?

Orginally published on www.respeo.com.

Our evaluators at ResPeo are highly skilled researchers who play a crucial role in the evaluation process, ensuring that the evaluation is conducted systematically and effectively. Evaluators are responsible for charting the progress of the evaluation and examining the study as it unfolds. This involves keeping track of their role in the process and seeking feedback from stakeholders to ensure that the evaluation is on track.

The evaluator acts as a relationship builder, establishing trust and cultural respect, and investigates structural inequities. They also empower stakeholders by involving them in the evaluation process. At ResPeo, we are open to modifying our original design based on stakeholder feedback during the course of the evaluation. This responsiveness to stakeholders is essential in ensuring that the evaluations we lead meet their needs and expectations.

Furthermore, the evaluator’s role goes beyond being a mere observer. We actively engage with organisational members, facilitating individual and organisational learning. By expanding on the traditional role of the evaluator, we create opportunities for dialogue, inclusion, and deliberation, fostering a shared understanding of the program and its activities.

The evaluator’s role may also pose some challenges. Some may be operational — such as data access barriers or slow evaluation participant recruitment. Others relational — it may be challenging for clients to accept less than positive feedback on their programme of work. It is part of the evaluator’s role to support clients to be able to utilise critiques developmentally, towards the improvement of their initiative. But it is important that both evaluator and client work together to build an openness to feedback and its benefits.

Overall, the evaluator’s role is multifaceted and requires a systematic approach. They are responsible for ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of the evaluation process, building relationships with stakeholders, and empowering them to actively participate in the evaluation. By fulfilling these roles, our evaluators at ResPeo contribute to the overall success and impact of the evaluation.