The main types of evaluation are:

• Process evaluation - examines the way in which a project or program was implemented. For example, what worked well, what didn't work and what could be done differently next time.

• Formative evaluation - evaluation that usually takes place before a project or in the early days of an initiative or program. Examples include, needs assessment, proactive and clarificative evaluation.

• Summative evaluation - a method of assessing the effectiveness of the program at the end of the program activities. For example, when assessing whether to modify or continue a program.

• Impact evaluation - examines the immediate and short term outcomes of a project or program. For example, whether the program achieved what it set out to achieve.

• Outcome evaluation - is conducted to determine whether the long term goals of an initiative have been achieved. It specifically looks at whether there has been lasting change as a result of an initiative.