Development of an evaluation and learning framework to inform CRCWSC impact assessment (Project D6.1)

Overview

Demonstrating the level of influence, adoption and impact of research and engagement activities by the CRC for Water Sensitive Cities (CRCWSC) has on changing current practice is key to securing long-term support and investment for these activities.

The purpose of this project is to develop, test and refine an evaluation and learning framework to critically inform key CRCWSC processes, protocols and pathways for adopting water sensitive concepts, tools and practices within national and international urban water contexts.

The project also aims to:

• map and characterise the expected adoption pathways for CRCWSC’s research outcomes;
• deliver an evaluation and learning framework appropriate for a large-scale, complex research program; and
• test the evaluation and learning framework to assess its effectiveness in providing relevant impact information and, where necessary, refine the framework ready for implementation.

Key outcomes

This project will deliver the necessary evaluation tools, techniques, and processes for collecting and analysing data to reveal what impact CRCWSC’s research and activities have.

In May 2016, researchers published the CRCWSC Evaluation and Learning Framework which, along with an Evaluation Implementation Plan and associated data collection tools, will help to encourage greater participant and end-user uptake of CRCWSC research.