Background and Utility of Rapid Program Evaluation

Program evaluation is generally a time consuming and extensive process by which a program’s structures, processes and outcomes are comprehensively documented, reviewed, and evaluated. This process can take from one to three years or longer, depending on the complexity of the program, the activities or services it provides, and the expected outcome or impact of the program for participants and the broader community. However, in a resource constrained environment with a focus on mission readiness and the drawdown of troops from the conclusion of two wars, as well as increased attention to psychological health and Traumatic Brain Injuries, the Defense Department requires a rapid approach to evaluating psychological health and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) programs. Such methods must also account for the many post 9/11 psychological health and TBI programs implemented with little scientific evidence to support their ability to bring about long-term improvements in Service member outcomes. In light of these factors, efforts are underway to better understand these psychological health and TBI programs through the application of the principles and techniques of program evaluation. This approach has been tailored to provide a rapid examination of the attributes of effective programs that are likely to have an impact on Service members and veterans.