About This Guide

Overview

This guide addresses four basic questions:

1. How do I know if I should hire a local evaluator?
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a local evaluator?
3. What do I look for in a local evaluator?
4. How do I find a local evaluator?

The guide includes a resources section with a list of additional resources available to assist you in selecting a local evaluator and a glossary of key terms and appendixes that include sample tools for hiring a local evaluator.

How To Use the Guide

You may or may not need to use the entire guide. If you are unsure about whether you should hire a local evaluator to assist you with the needs assessment and evaluation of your program, read at least the first three sections. If you know you need to hire a local evaluator but are unsure how to go about it, review the section on finding a local evaluator. If you are looking for tools to help you select a local evaluator, review the appendixes. This guide will help you address whatever needs you may have related to hiring a local evaluator.

Other guides are available in this OVC series to assist you with your needs assessment and program evaluation:

• Guide to Performance Measurement and Program Evaluation.
• Guide to Conducting a Needs Assessment.
• Guide to Protecting Human Subjects.