4. Where does measuring outcomes fit?

Measuring outcomes

In essence, in measuring outcomes in family support we want to describe:

The outcomes we are trying to achieve
The extent to which we are achieving these outcomes (including showing a cause and effect link between the services provided and the outcomes achieved).

One small part of evaluation

Evaluating family support services is the process of determining the merit, worth or value of family support services.

We often judge the worth of human services in terms of:

• effectiveness
• efficiency
• adequacy and
• appropriateness.

Measuring outcomes focusses on the first question effectiveness. It is one small part of evaluation.

In practice there are several approaches to evaluation:

Program evaluation
Program monitoring and review
Service capacity evaluation
Agency focussed evaluation
Client focussed evaluation

Measuring outcomes in family support is one element in these evaluations.

Many different strategies and tools are used in evaluation processes, e.g.

• Interviews
• Questionnaires
• Focus groups
• Assessments
• Case reviews
• Peer review
• Statistical analysis

Measuring outcomes is one of many evaluation strategies.

In measuring outcomes in family support we are not focussing on all the other questions that it is essential for family support services to answer, for example:

Do we have adequate referral networks?
Are we using an appropriate service model?
Are case conferences working?
Is the staff peer review process appropriate?