Discussion 1- While conducting the evaluation process. It is important also to think about the social networks. Though stakeholders and community leadership forms an integral part of the process, it is critical to note that social networks are equally important in the community affairs. Sometimes, they can take positions on an issue thus impede the whole process. Therefore, it is paramount that a good evaluation should incorporate the understanding of the social networks (Goshal et al. 2014). It will help planners to have smooth operations as it will have exposed all the hidden social relationships that can be detrimental to the program promotion.
Discussion 2-Another key stakeholder is the financer. The programs cannot be conducted without proper financial support. The bankroller will make finances available for different activities during the evaluation stage and at implementation (Poland et al. 2008). The funds can be used to perform advertisements as well as sponsor other intervention strategies.
Discussion 3- Formative evaluation also helps understand and approximate the financial capacity needed to implement the program as well as the anticipated reception of the program by the target population effectively (Poland et al. 2008). It is always crucial to have the right budget projection to ensure the implementation process is entirely funded, and there is no room for financial shortages.
Discussion 4- Stakeholders like the community can help influence the community for the program especially when cases of ethical dilemma arise, and the community beliefs do not conform to the program objectives (Goshal et al. 2014). The leaders can use their influence to help create logical sense as to why they should embrace the program.
Discussion 5- Formative evaluation can also help bridge the expectation gap. Sometimes there are unrealistic expectations about the program by the implementers that are far-fetched and do not reflect the reality on the ground. Formative will avail the help provide the truthful information about the target population’s perception of the program (Poland et al. 2008).
References
Ghoshal, G., Mangioni, G., Menezes, R., & Poncela-Casanovas, J. (2014). Social system as complex networks. Soc. Netw. Anal. Min. Social Network Analysis and Mining, 4(1).
Poland, B., Frohlich, K. L., & Cargo, M. (2008). Context as a Fundamental Dimension of Health Promotion Program Evaluation. Health Promotion Evaluation Practices in the Americas, 299-317
