Stakeholder Involvement in Evaluation: Does it Affect Observers' Perceptions of an Evaluation? And Which Stakeholder Group(s) Do People Think Should to Participate?

Background: Stakeholders are often involved in evaluation, such as in the selection of specific research questions and the interpretation of results. Except for the topic of whether stakeholder involvement increases use, a paucity of research exists to guide practice regarding stakeholders.

Objectives: We address two questions: (1) If a third-party observer knows stakeholders were involved in an evaluation, does that affect the perceived credibility, fairness, and relevance of the evaluation? (2) Among individuals with a possible stake in an evaluation, which stakeholder group(s) do they want to see participate; in particular, do they prefer that multiple stakeholder groups, rather than a single group, participate?

Research Design: Six studies are reported.