ABSTRACT

This chapter explores the position of evaluation in the structure of a community development project. It traces some of the sources and models of practice of evaluation, so that can be the better judges of how to assemble the most relevant material, and how best to use it. The 'project cycle' model of project planning and evaluation provides sponsors with the information that they might need to terminate the process if, and when, criteria of success or failure manifest themselves. It puts into stark relief the fact that the power of the sponsor is the arbiter over the criteria for continuation or closure. Evaluation is that part of the methodology which attempts to counter the distorting forces of chance, opportunism, or petty politics on the fortunes of development. Evaluation offers a historical assessment to be made so that the costs and benefits can be put into perspective through reasoned analysis.