What a great discussion, and so many interesting reflections! I like Kombate’s point on visual tools’ ability to increase impact. Coming from a media background, I can concur that the use of visual tools during the evaluation process enables a more compelling story to be told after the evaluation has been completed (and published) – or while it is being conducted, for that matter.
On the point of learning, the WFP Office of Evaluation has conducted an evaluation stakeholder survey on communication products and evidence use. Some findings below:
On the question of how evidence can be better channelled, packaged and presented to be useful – 31% of audiences indicated shorter reports with simpler language, 28% highlighted scope, with more relevant questions and findings, 17% highlighted processes, 10% accessibility and channelling, 9% variety with more tailored products and 5% indicated timeliness
Overall shorter evaluation products (such as summary evaluation reports) had a much higher usefulness rating than full evaluation reports – 81% compared to 58%
Products like briefs and infographics had a higher usefulness rating among directors and senior management
Although it’s clear from the findings that there is a need for shorter text, when asked about the preferred format for receiving evaluation information the majority of the audience still indicated reading (74%) – followed by oral (65%), video (56%) and then audio (39%)
Translating evaluation info into a visual language requires niche skills that could be context-specific and culturally sensitive. I’m a big advocate of using visualization in evaluation processes and products; however it’s important to consider that specific audiences may still require text-based info (using visualization as an aid to the message); while others may prefer to receive the entire message in a visual format. Understanding audiences’ specific information needs are therefore critical to achieve the evaluation’s purpose and use.
RE: Can visual tools help evaluators communicate and engage better?
Dear Harriet,
What a great discussion, and so many interesting reflections! I like Kombate’s point on visual tools’ ability to increase impact. Coming from a media background, I can concur that the use of visual tools during the evaluation process enables a more compelling story to be told after the evaluation has been completed (and published) – or while it is being conducted, for that matter.
On the point of learning, the WFP Office of Evaluation has conducted an evaluation stakeholder survey on communication products and evidence use. Some findings below:
Translating evaluation info into a visual language requires niche skills that could be context-specific and culturally sensitive. I’m a big advocate of using visualization in evaluation processes and products; however it’s important to consider that specific audiences may still require text-based info (using visualization as an aid to the message); while others may prefer to receive the entire message in a visual format. Understanding audiences’ specific information needs are therefore critical to achieve the evaluation’s purpose and use.