Evaluations can take many forms. Evaluation design and selection of metrics is typically the responsibility of the evaluator in accordance with research objectives and industry standards, but sometimes is specified by the client organization, a multi-party collaborative, or is required by the text of legislative language or ordered through regulatory requirements. Program and portfolio evaluations are often guided by templates reflecting current industry standards. Templates are dyanamic, and are updated over time. Impact and process program evaluations are primary. Evaluations can also include market evaluations and market transformation evaluations. Special designs are required for decoupling evaluations, rate evaluations, policy evaluations, and social program evaluations. Some evaluations are specifically for a single client; others take place in a collaborative context, and require taking all stakeholder perspectives into account.

For example, in evaluating a low-income rate or a low-income payment assistance program, the first goal is to make the rate and bills affordable to the customer with insufficient income. For conformance evaluations, legislation may specify the design of an evaluation, and performance may be measured against certain statutory references and requirements. We can include assessment from the standpoint of climate adaptation to support decision making under deep uncertainty. Large-scale data analytics may be required for some reforms. Some evaluations require random assignment (RCTs). However, the requirements for due diligence, accuracy, precision, and the pursuit of truth in measurement are a constant in all evaluation work.

We will work with you to develop key aims and objectives, and to optimally design an evaluation to match your goals and objectives.