This article highlights red flags that evaluators can watch for when designing and implementing evaluations and suggests some potential “fixes” to avoid or mitigate harm. These red flags are intended to encourage reflection about how our choices compound and why we need to continually examine how evaluation activities are experienced.  Often, small adjustments can be made to create the conditions to better uphold the principles of trauma-informed approaches.

AI is increasingly being used to support evaluation activities, including developing interview guides, generating survey questions, organizing qualitative data, identifying themes, summarizing findings, and drafting reports. While evaluators remain responsible for data collection, interpretation, and decision-making, AI can still shape how participant experiences are understood and represented.

Eval Academy’s Implementation Science video series offers practical, accessible learning for evaluation professionals. Grounded in implementation science principles, these videos translate theory into clear, usable insights that support stronger evaluation design, interpretation, and use.

It can be easy to describe what a program does, but is much harder to pin down what it’s actually trying to change. Without clear outcomes and assumptions, evaluations end up measuring what’s convenient instead of what matters.
A good program logic spells out the intended change, why it’s expected, and what’s realistically within the program’s influence. When that clarity is in place, everything from indicators to data collection becomes more meaningful.

Evaluating gender-based violence programs requires care, intention, and a trauma-informed mindset. This article explores how trauma-informed principles can be embedded throughout every stage of an evaluation—supporting safety, minimizing harm, and honouring the voices of survivors and frontline workers. It offers practical, real-world considerations for conducting meaningful and ethical evaluations in this complex and sensitive sector.

Learn how to bridge the gap between evaluation questions and indicators in program evaluation. This article explains why developing indicators is a crucial step before choosing methods and measures, ensuring evaluations are focused, feasible, and aligned with intended outcomes. Discover practical tips for selecting specific, measurable, and timely indicators, balancing quantitative and qualitative approaches, and using frameworks like logic models and theory of change. The guide also covers indicator types, triangulation, and the importance of involving stakeholders in indicator design for robust, actionable evaluation results.

Evaluability Assessments (EAs) can save time, money, and effort by showing if a program is ready for evaluation—or if it’s too soon. This article breaks down when an EA is worth doing, when it’s not, and what to try instead.

Learn how to write effective evaluation questions with these 10 expert tips from Eval Academy. Discover how to align questions with purpose, engage partners, and explore outcomes, systems, and context.

Learn how to use the Kirkpatrick Model in your evaluations with this short video.

Learn how to create trauma-informed evaluation tools that prioritize safety, dignity, and inclusivity when working with people affected by trauma.

Discover how evaluation can be a powerful act of kindness for your program. Whether you're just starting your evaluation journey or looking to refine your approach, this article offers insights and resources to help you spread kindness through evaluation.

Evaluating a program is crucial for understanding its impact and effectiveness. However, there are situations where it might not be the right time to conduct an evaluation. This article will help you to determine if now is the time to evaluate your program.

Discover how the principles of Atomic Habits by James Clear can transform program evaluation. This article explores how small, consistent changes, systems thinking, and identity-based habits can streamline workflows, strengthen client relationships, and enhance evaluation practices, offering practical strategies to build momentum and drive meaningful results.

Discover the insights and outcomes of using keeoukaywin, The Visiting Way, to engage Indigenous participants in research and evaluation. This article explores the importance of building reciprocal relationships, creating space for natural, meaningful conversations, and adapting approaches to honor cultural practices, while offering practical strategies for implementation.

Discover why good program design is the secret for impactful evaluations! This article reveals how clear objectives and strong leadership can elevate your evaluation game, ensuring you deliver actionable insights. While great design isn’t mandatory, it’s a game changer that sets the stage for success.

Explore the key differences between research and evaluation in this comprehensive guide. Learn about their distinct goals, methodologies, data collection and analysis approaches, and reporting styles. Ideal for professionals and students looking to understand the unique roles of research and evaluation in advancing knowledge and improving programs.

Discover 10 practical tips for creating more accessible evaluation reports. This guide covers key aspects of accessibility, including color contrast, font choices, alt text, and plain language. Learn how to make your reports more inclusive and readable for all audiences, including those with disabilities or using assistive technologies.

Discover the importance of Evaluation Sustainability Plans in maximizing the impact of evaluations. Learn why you need one for your next evaluation project! Explore the key components and considerations to integrate evaluation insights into organizational culture for lasting benefits.

The terms “spread” and “scale” often go hand in hand, but they have distinct meanings. Learn the difference and when to use them in this article!

A real-world example of Indigenous evaluation that embraces the whole story and respects Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing.