Evaluation in Multi-Actor Policy Processes

Two main functions of evaluation are enabling accountability and collective learning. Both of these – and their combination – run into diverse complications when applied in complex multi-actor policy processes. The article explores these complications and illustrates them with examples from the field of spatial policy. In doing so, a third function of evaluation in such contexts is identified, viz. evaluation as an instrument of co-operation. Next, a number of theoretical ideas, supported by empirical research, are proposed in order to understand better when, why and how evaluation contributes to complex multi-actor policy processes. Based on these insights, some principles are elaborated for the development of constructive evaluation arrangements. The authors suggest that co-operation is a precondition for the preservation of accountability and learning functions of evaluation in multi-actor settings.