Abstract
Aim: To introduce the concept of evaluation studies. The authors focus on the use of evaluation in management, where the concept is used to increase the efficiency and benefits of implemented actions. The article reveals the growth of interest in evaluation studies and increased frequency of its usage as a result of its intensive implementation in programmes, projects and other lesser interventions within the scope of organisational management. The authors wish to encourage readers to familiarize themselves with the concept and to introduce it within their area of business activity.
Introduction: In this article the authors briefly characterized the concept of evaluation studies, its etymology, as well as its specific character in relation to phrases such as “control”, “audit” or “monitoring”. The article presents a history of evaluation, its roots an origins. The authors listed the basic criteria of evaluation and tried to familiarize the reader, in light of prior information, with the most frequently used approaches engaged in evaluation studies. The article presents evaluation studies as a distinctive series of actions aimed at improving management of an organisation. The uniqueness of evaluation study stems from its multi-dimensionality; a research approach, which evaluates a situation from several aspects, not only from the standpoint of observed events or process, but also from the use of context and strong correlation between action, and elements exposed to action. In such circumstances evaluation is seen as a highly democratic and egalitarian method of research, which strongly impacts on its usability in practice.
Conclusions: For many decades evaluation, a practical application of achievements in social sciences, has generated benefits and brought measurable results to effective organisational management processes. Evaluation studies, because of their fundamental nature, not only as an isolated activity but in tandem with the strong correlation between beneficiaries and social environment, provides a specific example of an approach, which helps to improve the quality of management. Evaluation is therefore an interesting option for practitioners who are strongly focused on improving an organization.
Relevance in practice: Presentation of evaluation studies as a tool, which may be harnessed in the field of management. Familiarise the reader with basic knowledge in the sphere of evaluation studies, its fundamental criteria, types and contexts of use. With the practical application of evaluation studies it will be possible to increase the effectiveness of management processes in terms of decision making and performance.
Keywords: evaluation studies, evaluation, management, efficiency, social science, valuation, criteria, intervention, project, European Union
Type of article: review article