People perform project evaluations when they want to learn about the effectiveness of their work and how it might be improved. For example, professionals in the manufacturing industry might want to learn about how a new workflow system is affecting their overall productivity. They might measure levels of productivity after implementing new systems and learn where they meet their goals and where they believe they can still benefit from changes. One of the best tips for project evaluation is to assign a project manager who is responsible for determining how evaluations are performed. A project manager should also be responsible for determining how involved parties make use of a project evaluation to improve their organization.
Before performing a project evaluation, it is important that a manager determines if a formative or summary evaluation is needed. When professionals use formative evaluations, they analyze projects as they progress. They might improve a project as new challenges and opportunities arise. This kind of project evaluation is excellent for making sure that a program is on track and that it is flexible enough to hold up under unforeseen circumstances.
When professionals use a summary project evaluation, on the other hand, the project normally has already been completed. They want to learn if their goals have been achieved. They might also want to study how and why a project was difficult and decide on ways to make future projects smoother and more effective. In most cases, project managers use both kinds of project evaluations.
It is also important to know how a project evaluation is to be presented. Many project managers believe it is best to use several different modes of communication to gain a clearer perspective of a project. For instance, an evaluation might include written text that explains how a project worked and where it could stand to be improved. It can also include photographs or sketches related to a project. Many professionals also choose to use charts that illustrate the relationships between various components of a project.
Many people find that bringing in an outside party is very effective for performing a successful project evaluation. Professionals who work for larger organizations might want to contract third part consultants to analyze projects and make suggestions for improvements. Individuals who work independently and who have limited budgets might want to find friends or acquaintances who are willing to look over a project and give some feedback. People in organizations with different departments might want to include representatives from other areas in evaluations to give feedback from different perspectives.
