A case study of a utilization-focused evaluation involving two community-based family services

The purpose of this research was to study a utilization-focused model developed to evaluate two small community-based family services. The case study method allowed for an intensive investigation of the model so that it could be determined whether or not it contributed to increased utilization of evaluation findings. The research, conducted over a period of two years, involved the participation of committees, selected by the Board of Directors of both organizations, to work with a researcher to develop a program evaluation. Results indicate that involving decision-makers from these organizations in the design and implementation of the evaluation was critical to the utilization of some of the findings. Other factors contributing to the utilization of evaluation findings are also discussed