What does outcomes assessment evaluate?

• A. The effect of the output, both positive and negative
• B. The production cost
• C. The time to deliver services
• D. The number of staff

Answer: (A)

Outcomes assessment focuses on the actual effects produced by a program’s outputs—the changes or impacts that result for people, communities, or systems. It asks whether the program made a difference and in what ways, including both positive results and potential negative or unintended consequences. This is about the end results and their significance, not just what was produced or how efficiently it was delivered.

Thus, evaluating the effect of the output, including both positive and negative outcomes, is what outcomes assessment is all about. Production cost, time to deliver services, and number of staff are measures of resources or efficiency, not the changes that occur because of the program’s activities.