Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Providing Feedback to Improve the Initiative
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas What is providing feedback? Presenting data from the evaluation to those involved in the initiative Usually presented in graph form Should be done on an ongoing basis; can also be done at the end of an evaluation
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Why provide feedback? To assess progress towards goals To see where more energy may be needed and where too much energy is being spent To focus on and celebrate cumulative accomplishments To show funders your accomplishments and provide them the opportunity to help re-direct the initiative
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas When should you provide feedback? Your staff should get feedback at regular intervals, especially early in the initiative's development. You might want to have feedback sessions once a month for the first year and then after that do them on a quarterly (four times a year) basis.
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas How to provide feedback Begin by summing up how the initiative is doing. Present the data as a good thing. Show graphs in this order: Community actions Community changes Measures specific to the mission or related to the initiative's development
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Present the information Introduce the information (definition, example, and why it's important) Give a detailed example from recent accomplishments Point out what's positive Make note of any trends Discuss re-direction of efforts Review examples on graph Note evidence of progress Ask for comments or questions from the group If the measure doesn't show recent growth: Show any previous growth If measures are cyclical in nature, point this out Ask about any activities that weren't recorded How to provide feedback
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Summarize by discussing strengths of the initiative End on a positive note! Review graphs and show the one most directly related to the mission of the project How to provide feedback
Copyright © 2014 by The University of Kansas Overall Tips Present data as a good thing Focus on the positive Convey the following: optimism about prospects for success (if appropriate) the need for changes or adjustment (if appropriate) a shared vision of the initiative as an effective catalyst for change