Research, monitoring and evaluation

Formative research is an important part of the program development and implementation process. This research can help to identify a gap in program delivery, define and understand a target group, create a program that meets the needs of the target group, determine the acceptability and feasibility of the program strategies, and build a working relationship between the target group and lead organisation. 

Jahn Health Consultancy can conduct formative research to justify funding for health projects, programs and activities, and to provide information that will assist in the implementation phase. Let us assist you with detailed literature reviews, a needs analysis, online questionnaires or project/program audits. We can also organise and manage focus group discussions. 

Health promotion usually involves complex activities, a range of approaches and a multisectoral approach (including strong community participation). It is desirable to conduct health promotion work over a prolonged time period (if funding allows) to allow time for changes in awareness, knowledge, attitudes, behaviours and environmental factors. Assessing the impact of health promotion work is crucial for quality improvement and for adding to the body of evidence that shows the value of health promotion in reducing the burden of disease. 

Monitoring and evaluation are crucial elements of a health project/program.

• Monitoring is the process of tracking implementation, progress towards the goal and objectives, keeping abreast of new information that is relevant to the program, and identifying and managing risks that arise.
• Evaluation works to collate the data collected during the monitoring process, as well as the findings from additional research to assess the effectiveness of the project/program. Evaluating health promotion involves assessing what has been achieved (outcome) and how it has been achieved (process). ​

We can develop a monitoring, research and evaluation plan that incorporates formative, process, impact and outcome measures. Furthermore, we can implement this plan and produce a quality report that you will have confidence in presenting to the funding body and stakeholders.