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Research and Evaluation
One of the many ways that CenterPoint consultants serve as
guides for decision-makers, is in our capacity to collect, analyze,
and present information that is useful in the decision-making process.
Survey Design and Implementation
Surveys yield useful
information when organizations want to know what their constituents need
or what views are held by various stakeholders. CenterPoint is
experienced in designing and implementing online, telephone, and mailed
surveys.
Evaluation
Evaluation is an
essential component of program design. Ideally, the evaluation plan is
developed at the same time that goals and objectives are created. Nearly
all foundations require an evaluation component in the grant proposal.
CenterPoint can develop and implement an evaluation plan. We believe in
a utilization-focused approach and strive always to help clients learn
from experience through formative as well as summative evaluation
information.
Organization Assessment
Assessments provide
useful information when leaders want to have an overall “check up” on
their organization. Assessments can be carried out either for the entire
organization or for particular aspects of organizational life, such as
board of directors, marketing, or fund raising. CenterPoint’s approach
relies on generally accepted standards of nonprofit management without
being prescriptive; we always take a positive approach to organization
performance.
Focus Groups
The focus group
method can be applied when an organization wants qualitative information
– perhaps to guide early thinking about a new program or to ascertain
the feasibility of an innovative idea. Focus groups are best led by
experienced interviewers who are not employees of the organization and
who do not have a vested interest in the focus topic. CenterPoint
consultants work with you to develop a deep understanding of what it is
that you want to know, develop interview questions jointly, and
determine who should be invited to the focus group. We are experienced
interviewers and always provide a written report of focus group
findings.
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