Program Evaluation

Words: 828
Pages: 4

Introduction As far back as the end of World War II, the field of public administration has had significant importance to American society. A key interest in public administration rests within the organization, efficiency and effectiveness of government programs and the development of public policies. Achieving efficiency and effectiveness requires public administrators to be skilled in a variety of areas. Chiefly among these skills are critical thinking, problem solving, the ability to effectively analyze and evaluate public programs, and the development and implementation of public policy, i.e., how well they work to prevent or solve problems and how there implementation can be improved.
Program evaluation is a systematic method for collecting, analyzing and using information to answer questions about projects, policies and programs, particularly about their effectiveness and efficiency. Conversely, Policy Analysis seeks to inform decision-makers to prevent errors; for enlightened discussion of policy; to formulate better policy; and to be responsive to
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Program Evaluation involves seeking out the option that has the greatest net benefit; the least political resistance; and is the best technical solution. It is, therefore, important for the analyst to know the difference between economically or technically feasible and politically acceptable alternatives. Additionally, when considering solutions, the program must be cost effective, stable, reliable and