ABSTRACT
This chapter describes some of the implementation problems faced by evaluators. It explains a research plan that meets most of the criteria for conducting good Family-Based Service evaluations. By definition, an evaluation will have an impact on program staff and service delivery. Evaluations are most successful when they are a part of the agency’s normal activities. Ideally, social service programs would be constantly evaluating themselves, so that program and practice modifications based on ongoing data collection and analysis become routine. Agencies new to evaluation should consult with those with more experience in the evaluation process on staff qualifications and equipment needs. The agency benefits from advice on evaluation methodology and implementation; the faculty consultant can bring the vicissitudes of doing practice research in the real world back to the classroom. Evaluations can be meaningless, or worse, detrimental when predetermined goals and research methodologies are overlaid on unique agency programs.
