Evaluation is a powerful tool for nonprofit organizations. In fact, evaluation is the “secret sauce” that differentiates organizations that thrive versus those that only survive. Additionally, evaluation can be a catalyst for positive change. For example, REC worked with a client for three years. At first, there were some reservations about data and using evaluation. […]
6 Benefits of Evaluation Read More »
In Part One of this blog series we discussed six key challenges that can arise when conducting evaluations in the research world. Evaluation work is tough; mistakes can be made, big complications can arise and the challenges can feel overwhelming. Here we discuss solutions to the evaluation challenges that we highlighted in Part One, which
6 Evaluation Solutions Read More »
In the world of research, evaluations are paramount. But what exactly is an evaluation? At REC we think of evaluations as systematic methods for collecting, analyzing, and using the information to understand the effectiveness and efficiency of projects, policies, and programs. In an ideal research world, evaluations are carried out perfectly and the results are
6 Evaluation Challenges Read More »
Think for a minute about your best job interview experience. What made it stand out? The respect, the warmth, the empathy, the knowledge gained and shared? All of these are elements of a successful job interview and they are also critical elements of conducting a successful qualitative interview. A qualitative interview is a method of
Tips for Conducting Qualitative Interviews Read More »
It’s hard to believe that 2017 is already over! REC was involved in so many different kinds of research and evaluation projects this past year. From early childhood education programs to evaluating services for older adults, REC was able to apply our quality research and evaluation skills to help the nonprofit community. As founder and
An Informal Evaluation of 2017 Read More »
It’s important to understand that there are pros and cons of each type of data collection method. To determine which strategy is best for you, first review your priorities, and decide what kind of data you want to obtain at the end of your collection. Then ask yourself a few key questions to help hone
4 Data Collection Methods – Pros and Cons Read More »
Once you understand the difference between qualitative and quantitative data, it is helpful to understand the various methods you can use to gather your data. Data collection methods are tools that help organizations collect quality data. Organizations can be confident in their findings when these tools are applied accurately. The list below provides the most
4 Data Collection Methods Read More »
You feel ready to collect data. You’ve figured out what question/s you need to answer and are prepared to go ahead and select a method to collect your data. Before taking this important step, let’s discuss qualitative and quantitative data. The previous post What is Quantitative and Qualitative Data? focused on the differences and similarities
Quantitative Versus Qualitative Data Read More »
Two Types of Data When people discuss data, they typically describe it as either quantitative or qualitative. Yet, what is quantitative data? What is qualitative data? How are these two types of data different? Is one type of data better to use than the other? Why should this topic matter to purpose-driven organizations? This blog
What is Quantitative and Qualitative Data? Read More »
