Evaluating your program > When to collect the information

When to collect the information

Ideally, you need to collect at least two sets of information: one to describe the situation before the program begins and a second after a certain period of time, such as six months, to know whether or not there has been any change. It is never too soon to start setting up systems for documenting your work to prepare for the evaluation.

Specific decisions about when to carry out your evaluation will depend on several factors:

• what is realistic
• what deadlines must be met
• the expectations of your funders
• your resources