Simultaneous evaluations of the existing Department of Veterans' Affairs pharmaceutical distribution system and an alternative "prime vendor" distribution concept in the private sector were conducted. This review of the methodology illustrates the problems and advantages in conducting large multisite evaluations simultaneously. (SLD)

The experiences of a group of evaluators evaluating a multisite integrated human service delivery system illustrate many design and measurement considerations in the preimplementation and implementation phases of evaluation. The reemergence of human service integration approaches will make such evaluation issues increasingly common. (SLD)

A program evaluation approach is proposed that individualizes objectives based on participants' characteristics and needs. This approach reflects tailoring of program services and assessment within the parameters of the program in order to maximize participant performance. The model appears theoretically sound and practical, but it has not been…

The experience of 10 years evaluating HIV risk-reduction intervention for drug users leads to the argument that program outreach workers are part of the intervention continuum and have important effects on service delivery. Improving pre-enrollment data collection will address evaluation issues raised by pre-enrollment outreach contacts. (SLD)

This article describes an ongoing survey that illustrates how evaluators, working with program managers, have effectively used client-based data to monitor performance in the Social Security Administration. The value of client-based data outweighs the limitations and problems collecting it. Customer perceptions are a critical barometer of quality.…

Effective practice reviews (EPRs) are described as used in evaluation studies for the Office of Evaluation and Inspections, a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Examples are given of EPRs in addressing new problems, structuring and improving federal programs, and decreasing costs. (SLD)