Journal Articles

Using Programme Theory to Evaluate Complicated and Complex Aspects of Interventions

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This article proposes ways to use programme theory for evaluating aspects of programmes that are complicated
or complex. It argues that there are useful distinctions to be drawn between aspects that are complicated and
those that are complex, and provides examples of programme theory evaluations that have usefully represented
and address both of these. While complexity has been defined in varied ways in previous discussions of evaluation theory and practice, this article draws on Glouberman and Zimmerman's conceptualization of the differences between what is complicated (multiple components) and what is complex (emergent). Complicated programme theory may be used to represent interventions with multiple components, multiple agencies, multiple simultaneous causal strands and/or multiple alternative causal strands. Complex programme theory may be used to represent recursive causality (with reinforcing loops), disproportionate relationships (where at critical levels, a small change can make a big difference — a `tipping point') and emergent outcomes.

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Detail Information

Series Title

Evaluation

Call Number

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Publisher

California : Sage Publications., 2008

Collation

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Language

English

ISBN/ISSN

1356-3890

Classification

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Content Type

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Media Type

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Carrier Type

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Edition

Vol. 14, No.1, Page 29-48

Subject(s)

Collaboration
Complexity
Performance measurement
Programme theory
Theory of change
Using Programme Theory to Evaluate

Specific Detail Info

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Statement of Responsibility

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