Defining Desired Outcomes

Desired outcomes tell us how we hope to make a difference for children in measurable terms. For example, children are in school and performing at grade level. OVC stakeholders agree on desired outcomes for each service area as a first step in quality improvement.

What do we mean by “outcomes”? Outcomes are measures of knowledge, attitudes, values, skills, behavior, condition, or status. These measures should reflect changes that occur when needed services are provided. In OVC programming, there is usually more than one outcome, and these outcomes are often connected and inter-related.

Defining desired outcomes is a critical step in defining quality and service standards. Once the outcomes are clear, it is much easier to define actions that are likely to achieve the desired result. Each country will want to decide on desired outcomes appropriate to their local context.

To be useful for improving quality, outcomes must be measurable. Being able to measure outcomes allows programs to examine whether strategies, processes of care, and service delivery model programs are effectively reaching the children and making a significant difference for them. However, not all outcomes are easily measured, and implementers are encouraged to think of proxy indicators to assess how their programs affect children’s lives

• Send to a friend
• Printer-friendly
• Introductions to themes (pdf)