Impact Evaluations

Our Experience

We bring strong expertise in impact evaluation, having designed and delivered studies across several sectors including heritage, arts, healthcare and innovation. Our approach follows HM Treasury guidance on evaluation design set out in the Magenta Book and Green Book. All researchers are members of the UK Evaluation Society and stay up to date with current practice.

We specialise in bespoke evaluation framework design and delivery, such as Theory of Change and Logic Model Frameworks. We use qualitative and quantitative research and evaluation methodologies to deliver process, impact, theory-based, formative, summative and longitudinal evaluations. A variety of data collection methods and evaluation techniques are used including participatory work such as workshops, depth interviews and observations, as well as process tracing and Most Significant Change.

Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult: Impact Evaluation

Harlow Consulting evaluated the impact of the CSA Catapult with fieldwork including development of a bespoke Theory of Change, desk-based research, extensive consultation with internal and external stakeholders, depth interview with their customers to gather detailed feedback. Our report has been used to highlight the significant achievements of the CSA Catapult to validate internal monitoring and evaluation findings, identify opportunities for improvement and drive targeted continuous improvement.

NHS Education for Scotland (NES): Training Programme Impact Evaluations

Since 2022 we have undertaken multiple evaluations across numerous different NES departments and teams. This includes impact evaluations of training programmes and interventions including graduate diplomas, vaccination workforce training, spiritual care supervision and various continuous professional development training outputs. Our outputs support NES in their continuous improvement of programmes, as well as in higher-level decision-making on future programme commissioning.

Home Building Skills Partnership (HBSP): Impact Evaluation of Brickwork Masterclass Programme

We evaluated the impact of a brickwork masterclass programme delivered in conjunction with the National House Building Council (NHBC) and part-funded by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The evaluation of the masterclass delivered in Further Education (FE) colleges was informed by an online survey of delegates, supplemented with telephone depth interviews and an observation of the training delivery on-site at one of the colleges. Our report focused specifically on quality of curriculum content and impacts on knowledge and confidence of FE tutors and assessors. Our recommendations provided valuable information to enhance the impact and value of the masterclasses moving forward.