Before discussing strategic evaluation further, first choose the purpose of the evaluation: is it for approaches, methods, designs, or purposes? There are several ways to conceptualize an assessment and because of this, the development of diversity in regards to such a term has become rampant. People are often confused about which method to use, mainly because they don’t know what its purpose is in the first place. Our focus will be on strategic assessment so that you can decide if this is the assessment method that is best for you.
It is important for a business or organization to conduct a strategic assessment to analyze whether its strategies will be helpful and useful when it comes to its long-term plans. What distinguishes this type of evaluation process from the others is that it emphasizes that evaluation designs must be based on the value of the information. Strategic evaluation basically focuses on conceptualizing strategies that will help solve social problems. This type of evaluation is not concerned when it comes to delivery and implementation, but rather focuses on answering these two main questions:
-Are the projects and activities relevant to the desired result?
-In terms of community cohesion, what are the possible effects of your project?
Basically, you have to do a strategic assessment twice. The initial evaluation is done before the project starts and once it has been recognized from the beginning, the second evaluation follows once the project has officially started providing goods and services. The strategic assessment needs to be done twice so that project managers and business owners know if there are any changes that need to be made or if there are other supplemental factors that need to be added. Knowing the status of the project and the strategic plans is crucial because it will help the management to determine the possible missing links between the causal chain (strategic plans, products and results) and also to address the potential threats of the project in the community. .
There are five elements that make up a strategic assessment that must be understood in order to fully utilize the method for optimal support:
1. Project inputs: refers to the resources, income and investments that have been earmarked or required for the project.
2. Project activities: this answers the question of what the project does with its resources and income, such as the delivery of goods and services, not only to its clients but to the community in general.
3. Project results: it is the immediate result of the project, whereas;
4. Project results: refers to the long-term effect of the project.
5. Impacts of the project on community cohesion: assesses the overall impact of the project on the community, whether positive or negative.
However, keep in mind that the strategic assessment should not only be done if you are starting a project. It is also important to do an assessment even if it is an existing company because it can influence future practice. Since the needs of clients and clients often change, it is crucial to review and evaluate strategies to divert focus from a project and change your perspectives.