Purposeful Evaluation: A Practical Guide to Design, Development and Delivery

This book offers a practical guide for those transitioning from research to systematic evaluation.

With growing demand for reliable evaluation across government, charities and other institutions, many new evaluators lack necessary knowledge and skills. This book addresses those gaps, offering step-by-step guidance on designing and delivering fit-for-purpose evaluations to maximise their use and utility. Taking a holistic approach to the evaluation journey, it covers key challenges such as engaging stakeholders, managing expectations and handling resource pressures.

With real-world case studies and practical tools, this is an essential resource for practitioners across public, academic and voluntary sectors.

David Parsons is Visiting Professor at Leeds Beckett University, Principal Consultant at P&A Research and Consulting. A Fellow of the Academy of Social Science, he was appointed to the UK government’s Evaluation Trial and Advice Panel in 2023.