Public Policy Evaluation Questions
Impact evaluation and outcome evaluation are both methods used in public policy evaluation, but they differ in their focus and scope.
Impact evaluation primarily focuses on assessing the causal effects of a policy or program. It aims to determine whether the intervention has achieved its intended goals and objectives. This evaluation method examines the immediate and direct effects of the policy on the target population or the broader society. It often involves comparing the outcomes of the intervention group with a control group to measure the impact of the policy.
On the other hand, outcome evaluation looks at the broader and long-term effects of a policy or program. It goes beyond assessing the immediate impacts and focuses on the ultimate outcomes and consequences of the intervention. Outcome evaluation examines whether the policy has achieved its desired outcomes and whether it has made a significant and sustainable difference in the lives of the target population. This evaluation method often considers various factors, such as social, economic, and environmental impacts, to provide a comprehensive assessment of the policy's effectiveness.
In summary, impact evaluation primarily focuses on immediate effects and causal relationships, while outcome evaluation looks at the broader and long-term outcomes of a policy or program. Both evaluation methods are essential in understanding the effectiveness and impact of public policies.