| Session Title: Adaptive Evaluation in Philanthropy: Creating Conditions for Learning Amidst Complexity |
| Think Tank Session 104 to be held in Pacific D on Wednesday, Nov 2, 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Sponsored by the Non-profit and Foundations Evaluation TIG |
| Presenter(s): |
| Hallie Preskill, FSG Social Impact Consultants, hallie.preskill@fsg.org |
| Discussant(s): |
| Tanya Beer, Center for Evaluation Innovation, tbeer@evaluationinnovation.org |
| Abstract: Many thought leaders have been pushing the philanthropic field to engage in more catalytic and systems-focused grantmaking. While this transformation in funding is taking hold, as evidenced by a growth in funding of advocacy work, cross-sector collaboration, and systems change, the sector's approach to evaluation is not keeping pace. Many are still struggling to find an evaluation approach that is well-suited for social innovation in complex environments. Building on the findings of a study of the evaluation practices of ten major foundations conducted by FSG and the Center for Evaluation Innovation, this think tank will tackle how the practice of evaluation can be transformed in order to support strategic learning in an age of complexity and uncertainty. After hearing study results, participants will have a facilitated discussion exploring when, why and how to engage in developmental or adaptive evaluations and the internal conditions, structures, processes needed to support adaptive evaluations. |