Andrew Berry, Secretary of the UK Evaluation Society

What is ‘Windows on Evaluation Matters’?

Windows on Evaluation Matters presents FIVE keynote sessions on hot topics in 2020 for evaluators and those with an interest in evaluation!


Evaluation DOES matter right now. Humanitarian crises, climate change, inequalities, political volatility, peace and security concerns, all against the backdrop of a global pandemic – the evidence being presented to Governments and decision-makers has a big impact on all of our lives. The rhetoric around evidence and evaluation has been changing recently too, something which the UK Evaluation Society has already publicly recognised and drawn attention to the ‘responsibility of evaluation’.

So why should you attend ‘Windows on Evaluation Matters’?…

It is timely and relevant. The ‘Windows on Evaluation’ special online event is being organised by the UK Evaluation Society between 23rd and 27th November 2020 to collectively reflect on and shape what current issues mean for those of us working and interested in evaluation. For those of you who are relatively new to evaluation, it offers a fantastic vista and opportunity to gain more insights on evaluation and why it matters in the here and now. For everyone, the matters covered in each Window will provoke discussion and revitalise your thinking well into next year… so be part of it!

It is interactive, offering you engagement with world class actors in the professional field. Spaced across five lunchtime sessions during the week, you will hear from a unique set of recognised leaders in evaluation including theorists, practitioners and policymakers (see list and bios here), and have the opportunity to ask your questions and share your own experiences. We will also be hosting a special UK Evaluation Society ‘WebiBar’ on Thursday 26th November about experiences of evaluation in an era of fake news. All of the event sessions are open to and framed around Delegates working in a wide range of contexts, professional specialisms, evaluation experience and personal backgrounds.

It is convenient and accessible. Spacing out the event into 90-minute Windows represents a manageable (and enjoyable) distribution of time, as well as providing opportunity to reflect between sessions and build momentum through the week. Recordings of all the sessions will be shared with all Delegates (which will be helpful if you cannot attend a particular session). To assist with the Zoom technology, we are working with a professional events company who are experienced in making online events accessible for a wide range of audiences with varying needs.

It is excellent value for money! The ‘Windows on Evaluation Matters’ online event is something new for the UK Evaluation Society and we are excited about the benefits it offers for members. It is a step-up in scale and scope from the 11 free webinars we have already hosted for Society members this year (attracting over 500 registrations), as well as complementing our plans for Annual Conference 2021 on the theme of Evaluation and Evaluative Thinking. The Delegate rate (£60 for individual members, £80 for non-members) covers all events during the week. Delegates can achieve even better value from the event by becoming members of the Society if you haven’t already – find out more about the benefits here.

We look forward to seeing you at the event – more information and Delegate Registration for ‘Windows on Evaluation Matters’ here