Feedback is a vital component of any complex change programme. Without feedback, it is impossible for policy makers, programme and frontline teams to learn, adapt and improve. The Strategy Unit therefore sees evaluation as a vital part of the mix in making large-scale change.

Evaluation is all too often a late – or even an after the event – addition to programmes. Traditionally undertaken as a removed and academic exercise, evaluation has not fulfilled its potential as a tool for change.

The Strategy Unit takes a different view. We see a role for evaluation that is highly applied and focused on aiding programme development and implementation. Especially where programmes are large scale and complex, we see evaluative feedback as a fundamental part of the process of change.