Human Services Organization of Interest to You.

¶ … human services organization of interest to you. Then explain one specific purpose for conducting a program evaluation in that organization. Provide one example that illustrates how program evaluation might be utilized for this purpose. Support your response with references to the Learning Resources. Finally, draw a conclusion about the usefulness of program evaluation in assessing human services programs and services

Program evaluation is both essential and useful for human services administrators. Evaluation is a process that involves collecting and analysis of data then using the information acquired to determine whether your organization or program is effectively carrying out its planned activities (Curry, Rutgers The State University of New Jersey, & Professional, 2008).

An evaluation can show the extent to which your organization or program is achieving its stated objectives and the expected results. Program evaluation is an essential organizational practice used by organizations across the world. Program can be integrated into a human service organization program at any point of the program but, it is not practiced consistently in the program. It is necessary for fulfilling operating principles which guiding an organization's activities (Rossi, 1999).

An example of a human service organization is, the Center of Disease Control (CDC) which mainly deals with public health and they refer to effective program evaluation as a systematic way of improving and accounting for public health actions by involving processes that are useful, practical, ethical, and accurate (CDC, 1992). Program evaluation guides public health professionals in their duties. In CDC, program evaluation is useful in the following ways,

a) using facts from the evaluation as a basis for decision-making and action taking;

b) performing effectively and efficiently as a service agency

c) ensuring that their activities are outcome- oriented

d) It helps them be accountable in what they do

Across the world, there are certain programs that have been designed and are meant to improve life's quality for individuals, families, and communities. Organizations require that programs have an evaluation component. This evaluation can be done as the program begins or as the program continues or at the end of the program. Some organization can carry out the evaluation continuously. Some programs are evaluated in part and funding is done based on what the evaluation research findings of these programs (Rossi, 1999).

Lessons learned during evaluation do not automatically translate into action or informed decision-making. Deliberate effort is needed to ensure that the findings of the evaluation processes are used appropriately. Use of these results involves strategic thinking and engagement of the stakeholder by giving them feedback and continuous updates (Curry et al., 2008).

According to Rossi, Freeman, and Lipsey (1999), "Program evaluation is the use of social research procedures to systematically investigate the effectiveness of social intervention programs that is adapted to their political and organization environments and designed to inform social action in ways that improve social conditions."