What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to illustrate a practical evaluation process that assesses member perceptions of program effectiveness for a commodity organization.

May 28, 2026

Limited Resources--Growing Needs: Lessons Learned in a Process to Facilitate Program Evaluation

Key Points

The aim is to illustrate a practical evaluation process that assesses member perceptions of program effectiveness for a commodity organization.
Utilized a recent project with the Michigan Apple Committee as a case study for evaluation.
Engaged stakeholders to gather perceptions about program effectiveness and decision-making inputs.
Identified key steps for successful program evaluation, addressing a gap between evaluation theory and practical application.
Highlighted member perceptions that influence program effectiveness and decision-making processes.

Abstract

Extension educators face the challenge of delivering reliable information as input to the decision-making process of clientele groups. This article draws on a process used to evaluate member perceptions of program effectiveness for a commodity organization where the program beneficiaries are also the funding source. While vast literature covers evaluation procedures and theory, there is little information on practical evaluation examples linked with this theory, a gap this article addresses. We use a recent project with the Michigan Apple Committee (MAC) to illustrate the process and draw attention to critical steps for a successful evaluation.

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