aes24 International Evaluation Conference

Authors: Martina Donkers (Martina Donkers), Ellen Wong (ARTD, AU), Jade Maloney (ARTD, AU)

Some programs comprise a range of diverse projects striving towards a common goal - for example grant programs, where a wide range of different grantees are carrying out different projects with very different activities in pursuit of the grant program objectives.

These can be a challenge to evaluate - with so many different activities, outputs cannot be easily aggregated, and each project may be responding to its local context in unique but important ways. These programs need efficient ways to identify common factors affecting implementation and outcomes that reflect the richness of the activities undertaken, but do not place undue burden on organisations, particularly those receiving smaller grants.

We developed a novel method that uses participatory workshops to explore commonalities in implementation across projects and the various ways they seek to achieve common program outcomes. The theory-driven method builds off the Most Significant Change and Qualitative Comparative Analysis, and combines data collection with collaborative participatory data analysis to build a rich qualitative understanding of projects in a relatively short timeframe with fewer resources. Active participation from project leaders (e.g. grant recipients) builds cohesion across the program, and helps project leaders feel more connected and supported.

This paper outlines the theory, approach and uses of Participatory Analysis Workshops, including strengths and limitations, the types of data and insights the method can yield. We use our work with the NSW Reconstruction Authority to evaluate the Covid Community Connection and Wellbeing Program using this method to illustrate what we've learnt about how the method works and in what circumstances, and then identify other potential use cases. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions to help inform future uses of this methods. This information will equip evaluations with Tools to navigate varying territory together to understand progress toward program outcomes.