Integrating foresight and evaluation: The example of ParEvo

Abstract

This paper aims to encourage connections between the fields of program evaluation and foresight practice by describing the use of a web application ParEvo as an example of how foresight methods can incorporate evaluative thinking. It begins by introducing the field of foresight practice, along with its differences and commonalities with that of evaluation. It then introduces ParEvo.org and its uses to date, along with a detailed description of how a ParEvo exercise is implemented. An overview is also given of how different types of evaluation activities are built throughout the implementation process. Attention is then focused on three different types of embedded theories of change, and how they can be evaluated. The paper concludes with two observations about the breadth and depth of evaluative thinking present in ParEvo processes and the supporting platform. Some limitations are also acknowledged, arising from the rich nature of the outputs generated and the decentralized nature of the design and operation of ParEvo exercises.