The Intersection of Evaluation and Quality Improvement

Description:
Evaluation and Quality Improvement are both applications of evaluative thinking - asking questions, answering them with data, and using the findings to learn and improve. Unsurprisingly, the two approaches call upon similar motives and skills. However, each has its own set of unique, value-adding tools and processes that can enhance the practice of the other. In this webinar, we will compare and contrast the two disciplines and discuss how evaluators can apply their unique skills and perspectives to strengthen CQI practice while also using CQI concepts to enhance evaluations.

Presenter:
Sarah J. Buek, MSW, LCSW, is the Founder and Principal of The IllumiLab, LLC. Ms. Buek has 15 years’ experience in the nonprofit human services sector in St. Louis. She began her career as a family therapist serving at-risk youth and families in home-based services before moving into program management and quality improvement. In her roles within nonprofit organizations, she has been responsible for program design, evaluation, and improvement. She’s also designed and implemented performance management databases and systems. As a consultant and funder, she’s trained, coached, and supported dozens of organizations in their efforts to design and implement effective programs, robust performance management systems, data collection tools and software, quality improvement tools and processes, and cultures of learning and improvement. Further, Ms. Buek is Adjunct Faculty at the Brown School at Washington University, where she teaches project management, continuous quality improvement, and program evaluation in the MSW/MPH and professional development programs.