Main uses of public policies and programs evaluation in Spain

Abstract

Research on evaluation use has become itself an object of study over the last 50 years, mostly due to its importance to improve policies and programs. This interest stems from observing a limited use in some cases, mainly results use (instrumental, conceptual, and symbolic) and process use. This article explores, from the view of Spanish experts, the uses of policy and program evaluations and their recommendations to promote their use. The main findings are: i) a mixed balance between an optimistic view of the use degree and another view that considers it mildly low, ii) the importance of the participation of those in charge and actors to promote the impact of evaluation, iii) a predominance of instrumental result-oriented uses aimed to modify and improve the evaluation aspects, followed by conceptual uses that broaden knowledge, procedural uses, and, to a lesser extent, symbolic uses. This article organizes recommendations to promote a greater use and impact of evaluations, while suggesting new lines of research to improve their impact on the quality and relevance of policies and programs.