Impact Assessment

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Abstract
In Europe, impact assessment is an essential element of evaluation. Impact cannot usually be measured directly but has to be explored in view of a set of both quantitative and qualitative impact dimensions. The impact needs also to be placed in the relevant context. At present, a range of established methods is available for use by evaluators. The methods can be grouped into three categories: those providing framework for assessment, those concerned with data collection, and those concerned with data analysis. Panels are used extensively to complement the other methods. European evaluations have so far been mainly concerned with quality and direct impact. Assessments of the medium- or long-term impact are still rare.