NEED DISCUSSION IN 10 HOURS or LESS

Respond to my CLASSMATE’S DISCUSSION by stating why you AGREE and share your thoughts on which you think is more appropriate (internal or external evaluation). Identify which type of evaluation you would recommend for your grant proposal and why? Also ask at least one question in response to an original peer post that you would like the author to explore further.

CLASSMATE’S DISCUSSION (Rebecca)

Evaluations play a vital role in the success and failure of non-profit organizations. There are pros and cons for each type of evaluation. According to Conley-Tyler (2005) Using both internal and external evaluations tools gives insights from all prospective. For example, using an evaluation tool that employees fill out give a sense of the internal workings of each aspect of the program. While have an external evaluation for those that benefit from the program measures the overall success and quality of care the person receives from the same program.

Developing a true and accurate tool used for evaluations that highlights the stipulations of the program for the funder that is flawless shows that many key factors were considered such as the internal workings of the non-profit. Researching the funders is essential because many funders will specifically require different information from both the internal and external evaluations.

There are many advantages to an internal audit such as the ability to understand the contextual knowledge of the program. The advantage of understanding the context of the program lets the organization tell the story of the program. Other advantages include taking ownership of recommendations, being able to keep up with time constraints by requiring a set number of target requirements reported each month, or even weekly. Internal evaluations are often cheaper and are completed more quickly and show the founders that the non-profit has internal strength capabilities.

External evaluations can show that non-profits are willing to accept fresh prospective by letting someone or an external auditor look at the program with fresh eyes. Often non- profits are guarded with their programs, however the ability to accept suggestions from others shows the wiliness to accept change. At times an external evaluator is a safeguard between the program and the funder. Having a person or team to become the mediator between the program and funders is encouraged because the evaluator is not tied to a possible power structure of the programs. Many outside firms have technical experts that can bring specialized programs into the evaluation process.

Most successful organizations incorporate a hybrid evaluation process according to Conley-Tyler (2005). Combining employees and professional evaluators will ensure a balances system is in place that will produce an exceptional grant proposal. Using this process will ensure that a grant will stand out above the rest. The non-profits I have experience working for use the hybrid approach to evaluations. Using this type of oversight is recommended and shows the strength of both types of evaluations.

Reference

Conley-Tyler, M (2005). A Fundamental Choice: Internal or External Evaluation? Evaluation Journal of Australasia, 4, 3-11.