10.0 – Evaluation, Assessment, and Research

Evaluation and research are systematic processes that park and recreation professionals use to better understand the impacts of their efforts on the communities they serve. What is learned through evaluation and research is used to demonstrate the value of what is provided and to learn how to make improvements. Analyses of reliable data and qualitative information are essential to track progress in implementing master plans and strategic initiatives. Products of evaluation, measurement, and research become important components to support planning, development and programming decisions.

Benchmarking is the process of making comparisons to the processes, programs, and services of other providers. Comparisons are most frequently made to other park and recreation agencies, but benchmarking can be done also with business and non-profit organizations. The National Recreation and Park association developed Park Metrics, which is a tool to capture uniform data on park and recreation agencies across the nation. Park Metrics is the only national benchmarking tool for the park and recreation profession. As such, it can be successful as a reliable research tool only with broad participation from park and recreation agencies.