Outcome measures and results

The Research Analyst defines each outcome measure under a program with a name, unit and numerator and denominator definitions. Results then record a period start and end, numerator, denominator and supporting evidence. The measure definition gives reviewers the meaning of each value before periods are compared.

• Define the measure. The Research Analyst links it to the program and records its unit and numerator and denominator definitions.
• Record the period. Each result links to the measure and carries period dates, values and an evidence attachment.
• Check the source. The Reviewer compares the attachment and reported values with the definitions before the team uses a result.

A program tracks a participation measure for a reporting period. The analyst records the unit and the definitions of eligible participants and the comparison base. For the quarter, the analyst enters the numerator and denominator and attaches source evidence. The Reviewer checks that the period and definitions match before the result is used in a report.

Agree each measure definition with the program owner before reporting begins. Decide whether periods may overlap, how corrections are handled, and which evidence source is authoritative. Ensure the denominator has the same scope and time window as the numerator. A changed definition should be reviewed before new results are compared with earlier ones.

Plan the first operating cycle before using these records for reporting.

Select a measure with results across adjacent periods. Read the definitions, then inspect each result value and its evidence. Check whether the periods match the program reporting plan. Ask the Reviewer to flag a result whose evidence supports a different numerator or period and have the Research Analyst correct the record before reporting.

A useful period comparison starts with a stable measure. If the numerator definition changes, ask the Research Analyst to explain whether the earlier result still uses the same population. The period start and end dates should make the reporting window explicit. Reviewers can then examine the attachment and the values together before relying on the comparison. The program owner sees a result with context rather than a bare ratio.

• Outcome result periods — Shows dated results and values beside their linked measure and evidence.
• Active Programs — Gives the Program Officer a route to the program behind each measure.

See the process and check the record model.