Evaluand is a term used in the field of evaluation to refer to the object or subject that is being evaluated. It is the focus of the evaluation process and encompasses various aspects, such as a program, project, policy, product, service, or an individual's performance.
In evaluation, the evaluand is the entity or phenomenon that is being assessed, analyzed, or appraised in order to determine its worth, effectiveness, efficiency, or impact. It is the target of evaluation, upon which judgments, conclusions, and recommendations are made.
The evaluand can be a tangible or intangible entity, and its characteristics may vary depending on the context of the evaluation. For instance, in program evaluation, the evaluand could be a social welfare program aimed at poverty alleviation, and the evaluation would seek to assess its outcomes, efficiency, and sustainability. In product evaluation, the evaluand could be a consumer product like a smartphone, and the evaluation would focus on its usability, quality, and market performance.
The evaluand is a critical aspect of the evaluation process as it provides a framework for understanding, analyzing, and assessing the entity or phenomenon being evaluated. Evaluators typically define and delimit the evaluand to ensure clarity and focus throughout the evaluation process. By evaluating the evaluand, stakeholders can gain valuable insights, make informed decisions, and improve the performance and effectiveness of the subject under consideration.
