ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the objective of providing guidance for those wishing to either commission research and evaluation or respond to such invitations and as such is instructional and directive in nature. It draws on the experience of a range of settings, processes and evaluation models, as well as the legislative and regulatory context, bringing together some key principles and good practice frameworks. The procurement process and subsequent contractual obligations can support or mitigate against such a relationship. The chapter presents the management of negative evaluation findings, and illustrates the centrality of the partnership approach undertaken by the research team and the commissioning agent. It explores the challenges of wider dissemination, including the impact of research on practice and policy. The chapter considers the sensitivities of sharing unexpected or potentially negative findings, and the implications for the researchers.
