"Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." Albert Einstein’s desk at Princeton University

“ Evaluation of online participation ... is still just an evaluation of participation!” * Alice Casey’s desk at the Involve offices, London * Less catchy, but also true

So, if ; "Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." … then how on earth do we know what to count and how to count it? Evaluation of online participation

We’re still learning... but here are some ideas...

What do we measure?

Some useful definitions Term Definition Outputs Tangible products (reports, meetings etc.) Outcomes Overall direct results (increased skills, reduced crime etc.) Impact Longer-term results (may include unintended effects) Quantitative Objective, measurable, predetermined response options Qualitative Subjective, interpretative, open ended response options