Week 5 Discussion 1

      Business of Program Evaluation: ROI
The process for measuring return on investment (ROI) is a comprehensive, systematic methodology that includes defining the types of data, conducting an initial analysis, developing objectives, forecasting value (including ROI), using the ROI process model, and implementing and sustaining the process. This chapter presents a business approach to evaluation using ROI. We begin with a discussion of why a business approach to evaluation is needed. Then we explain why and how the ROI process can help business achieve the level of accountability demanded in today’s economic climate for both public and private settings.
WHY A BUSINESS APPROACH?
“Show me the money.” There is nothing new about the statement, especially in business. Organizations of all types want value for their investments, and the ultimate value is the financial return on that investment. What’s new is the method that organizations use. While ROI is the ultimate report of value, organization leaders recognize that value lies in the eye of the beholder; therefore, the method used to show the money must also show the value as perceived by all stakeholders.
Measuring ROI represents the newest value statement. In the past, program or project success was measured by activity: number of people involved, money spent, hours involved, and so forth. Today the value definition has shifted: value is defined by results versus activity.
Mosele, J. & Dessinger, J. (2009). Handbook of Improving Performance in the Workplace. (Volume 3). Pfeiffer-Wiley
To prepare for this Discussion, pay particular attention to the following Learning Resources:

• Review this week’s Learning Resources, especially:
  • Read Week 5 Lecture – See Word doc.
  • Read Chapter 13-14 – See Word doc

 
Assignment:
This week you had the opportunity to learn about evaluation within the workplace at a level where results affect the outcome of the company’s success.
 

• Research an organization that you feel may be in need of a restructure in their use of evaluations.
• Develop the steps you would take to look for problems preventing an organization from being successful.
• In addition, support how you might obtain and utilize feedback for future improvement.
• 3 – 4 paragraphs
• No plagiarism
• APA citing