ABSTRACT
Most evaluations focus on program outcome as their primary task. The critical aim of an evaluation study is the specification of whether the original intent is being, or has been, realized. The critical evaluation of public policy on behalf of consumer advocate groups illustrates the point. Client satisfaction, safety, and investment dominate their interests. Budget classification is essentially an evaluation procedure in which governmental activities are sorted into a set of categories. The Office of Management and Budget approach to budget classification stems from a different interest and, hence, embodies a very different analytical scheme. Budgetary classification is a useful place to begin an examination of what constitutes the meaning of "program". Evaluators are led to undertake input studies when they are not certain that the program's conception has in some measure been realized in practice. The study of inputs as experienced focuses on the meaning of the program for those who use it.
