A baseline is a bulk of information, both quantitative and/or qualitative that describes a geographical location or theme and its characteristics at a certain point in time. It is essential to have a starting point in order to assess whether the project work has made any difference.

Formative evaluation ensures that learning, development and review happen throughout the project. It maximises the benefit to the project by allowing the possibility of change to ensure aims can be met or emerging opportunities are taken before the project finishes. It can be as simple as weekly team meetings where time is taken to discuss and review the project.

Summative evaluation takes place towards the end of the project. It can give an overview of the type of project and provide recommendations for future interventions. Timing is important to ensure that it does not get ‘squeezed out’ under delivery pressures.

Baselines, which are a bulk of information that describes a geographical location or theme and its characteristics at a point in time, should be: appropriate – relating to strategic objectives, aims etc, measurable and easy to source and they should update as the project progresses.

To set a baseline consider using:

Timely evaluation maximises the benefit to the project by allowing the possibility of change to ensure aims can be met or emerging opportunities are taken before the project finishes.

It can be as simple as weekly team meetings where time is taken to discuss and review the project. Evaluations at the end of the project can guide further actions and implementation.

Organisations and communities

This should be read in conjunction with 'how do I evaluate?' and 'how do I make the most of the evaluation?'

Regen West Midlands
enquiries@regenwm.org

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case

Urban Policy > Economy knowledge & employment

Training, Research & innovation