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Evaluating public policy grantmaking is different than evaluating traditional social service programs. Because policymaking is a slow process influenced by many factors, it is often difficult to determine what effect any particular funder or grantee has on a policy outcome. Because of this, evaluation frameworks seeking to identify causality often miss the mark when assessing public policy engagement. Different types of public policy engagement require different methods of evaluation. Accurate evaluations of public policy grantmaking must take context into account. By identifying the incremental steps that lead to successful policy change, funders can determine appropriate performance measures. Necessary factors to create policy change include:
These factors are critical not only to a particular policy change but also for ensuring that policy victories are maintained and expanded for lasting social change. When a particular policy objective is not achieved, funders must remember that grantmaker support lays the groundwork for future victories. Evaluations that assess the means of achieving policy change reflect a more accurate picture of grantee and grantor performance than those that focus on policy outcomes. Large policy wins cannot happen without small steps that pave the way. When assessing policy formation and change, evaluations cannot only measure the outcome; looking at process is key because policy change is often incremental and long-term. It is important for funders to encourage grantees to evaluate themselves through an ongoing assessment of their work to inform their decision-making and future efforts. |
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Copyright ©2005-2007 Northern California Grantmakers |
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