Evaluation refers to the systematic analysis and assessment of projects, programs, measures, or organizations based on clearly defined criteria and using social science methods. Evaluations can serve various functions. On one hand, they can generate insights that serve as a basis for strategic decision-making. Alternatively, evaluations can also fulfill a control function by checking efficiency or, in the case of impact-oriented evaluations, effectiveness. In practice, evaluations contribute to the legitimacy of services by providing understandable and measurable results. Furthermore, they can foster dialogue among different stakeholders, reveal potential for further development, and support evidence-based decision-making.

Depending on the objectives of the evaluation, different content focuses can be set. Accordingly, the evaluation design varies, reflecting the specific function of the evaluation as well as the content and structural conditions of the evaluation subject. Key decisions include whether an evaluation will be conducted in a supportive and developmental manner or from an external, more analytical perspective, as well as whether a goal-oriented or an open, exploratory approach will be chosen. This leads to the methodological approach, which typically relies on a combination of qualitative and quantitative social science methods.

The Center for Nonprofit Organizations and Social Impact has extensive experience in evaluating programs, projects, and organizations, including the analysis of internal structures, processes, and achieved impacts. This expertise is evident in numerous reference projects, such as the evaluation of internal organizational processes, comprehensive analyses of social policy programs, and impact-oriented evaluations of organizations and social innovations.