Practice Abstract - Research and innovation

Impact evaluation of a Multi-actor project

In many projects, there is a need to demonstrate the impact in comparison of the used resources and as information for the public. In Horizon2020, impact is defined as a measurement of an objective to be achieved, a mobilised resource, an effect achieved, or a context variable.

The best way to assess impact is to use indicators. Impact indicators represent what the successful outcome should be in terms of impact on the economy/society beyond those directly affected by the intervention. During the evaluation of current practices and methodologies of existing TNs, qualitative, and quantitative impact indicators for the following categories were identified and have been formulated for:

• Knowledge collected and shared;

• Design of knowledge reservoirs;

• Dissemination, communication, and information strategies;

• Multi-actor approach.

The use of impact indicators can be quite simple, for example, when it comes to the quantitative assessment of the MAA. One indicator to quantitatively evaluate the TN structure is the ‘equal distribution in the consortium between partners from different European regions’, specified by the no. of partners in consortium per European region.

On the other hand, the evaluation with output indicators can be more difficult. If in content and knowledge the content of a TN is to be evaluated about its quality, then “output relevant and practically applicable for users” should be consulted. However, to do this, one must consider the users' needs for practical solutions.

See also the soon published deliverable on “Summary on current practices and methodologies of Thematic Networks” found here: https://euraknos.eu/deliverables.

Source Project
EURAKNOS
Ongoing | 2019-2021
Main funding source
Horizon 2020 (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
Geographical location
Belgium
Project details

Project Keywords