Evaluating an Event

We plan for great events.  We pray for successful and life-changing events.  It is why we evaluate events so we can do better next time.

Sure! Evaluation will point you to some critical things, but thsst should be ok because leaders are called to lead and learn to correct things so it will go well the next time around.  

Here's a simple strategy of evaluating:  Good, Bad, Missing, and Confusing. After anything we do (event, retreat, mission trip, Sunday school, leader meeting, etc.), an individual or group gathers to discuss “What was…

1. Good: What went well? What were the “wins”? What made this a success? Who did great? What did we do this time that made things better? Were there any helpful tweaks or inventions from necessity?
2. Bad: What went wrong? What didn’t work? Did we try something that failed? Who didn’t do well
3. Missing: Did we forget anything? In what ways or areas could we have done more?
4. Confusing: What was our goal or purpose for doing this, and did we accomplish it? Were we clear? Did everyone get the point? Did people have a good time?

Create one streamlined set of notes from the input that’s shared and file it away. Then when an activity is planned, we have access to valuable insight about what’s needed to make it better than before.

PRO TIP: Who’s in the room? Evaluators can include staff, volunteers, student leaders—essentially anyone you want in the room, or anyone who needs to be there. It doesn’t have be the same people every time; in fact, different voices will prove more valuable for different events.

PRO TIP #2: Keep a notebook handy for staff to share their ideas (i.e., complaints). You don’t have time to listen to everyone share “what’s wrong” while an event is happening. And chances are you won’t invite all staff members to each evaluation. An idea notebook lets people jot down things they see that are Good, Bad, Missing, or Confusing as they occur. You can read through those comments before an event evaluation.

Resource:  YouthMinistry.com