The transformative power of evaluative rubrics

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Rethinking how we measure Change

In a world where progress is often defined by numbers, indicators, and rigid frameworks, how do we capture the real value of change—especially when it unfolds in unpredictable, complex environments?

In their thought-provoking article The transformative power of evaluative rubrics, evaluation experts Malene Soenderskov and Savi Mull argue that rubrics offer a vital alternative to conventional monitoring and evaluation tools. Rooted in the realities of systems change, evaluative rubrics go beyond ticking boxes—they embrace nuance, context, and the messy, non-linear paths that lead to meaningful outcomes.

Read The transformative power of evaluation rubrics (pdf)
Here are some of the key takeaways from the article:


✅ Rubrics bridge complexity and learning: They enable organisations to assess change relatively, accounting for context, constraints, and what’s realistically achievable—rather than applying a one-size-fits-all standard.

✅ They complement, not replace, traditional indicators: Rubrics add a critical layer of evaluative judgement that fosters adaptive learning and honest conversations about what success really looks like.

✅ They promote equity and transparency: By recognising diverse starting points and valuing incremental progress, rubrics ensure that all contributions—big or small—are seen and celebrated.

✅ They support stronger partnerships with donors: Rubrics create space for collaborative sense-making, moving beyond compliance to shared understanding and adaptive management.

Curious to learn how evaluative rubrics can reshape the way your organisation defines, measures, and communicates change?

👉 Download the full article here and discover practical examples, challenges, and insights on integrating rubrics into your measurement and learning practices.

Do you want to know more?

Join our upcoming webinar on evaluation rubrics – a practical, flexible method for assessing progress in complex development programs.

Learn how leading INGOs and foundations are using rubrics to:
✅ Go beyond linear cause-effect models
✅ Track changes in power, narratives, and relationships
✅ Support learning, participation, and adaptive decisions

🗓 June 3, 10:00 AM (UTC +2)
💻 Online | Hosted by StrategyHouse
🔗 Register now: https://www.globalevaluationinitiative.org/event/how-use-evaluation-rubrics-assess-progress-and-contribution-complex-programs-aimed-systems

How evaluation rubrics can help trace progress and results in complex programs

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Business and private sector development

When tackling the world’s most pressing challenges—like poverty, climate change, and systemic inequality—traditional monitoring and evaluation (M&E) tools often fall short. Why? Because they’re designed for linear projects with clear cause-and-effect logic, not for the messy, dynamic realities of systems change.

In their insightful article, How Evaluation Rubrics Can Help Trace Progress and Results in Complex Programs, Malene Soenderskov and Savi Mull make a powerful case for a different approach: evaluation rubrics.

Read: How evaluation rubrics can help trace progress and results in complex programs

Here’s a glimpse into what you’ll learn:

✅ Why linear M&E models don’t work for systemic change: Rigid indicators and predefined targets can’t capture shifts in power dynamics, cultural narratives, or policy landscapes.

✅ How rubrics enable nuanced, context-sensitive evaluation: By defining criteria, levels of progress, and descriptors, rubrics help organizations assess what good looks like in complex environments—and track progress along a continuum, not just a pass/fail.

✅ The power of participatory learning: Rubrics open space for multiple perspectives, foster dialogue, and support adaptive decision-making—turning compliance reporting into a meaningful learning process.

✅ Real-world examples: From Laudes Foundation to international NGOs, rubrics are helping organizations make sense of complex change and guide strategic adaptations.

Ready to rethink how you measure change in your programs?

👉 Download the full article here and discover practical tools, frameworks, and real-life insights that can help you capture the real value of your work.

Let’s move beyond numbers—and embrace a richer, more honest conversation about progress and impact.

Do you want to know more?

Join our upcoming webinar on evaluation rubrics – a practical, flexible method for assessing progress in complex development programs.

Learn how leading INGOs and foundations are using rubrics to:
✅ Go beyond linear cause-effect models
✅ Track changes in power, narratives, and relationships
✅ Support learning, participation, and adaptive decisions

🗓 June 3, 10:00 AM (UTC +2)
💻 Online | Hosted by StrategyHouse
🔗 Register now: https://www.globalevaluationinitiative.org/event/how-use-evaluation-rubrics-assess-progress-and-contribution-complex-programs-aimed-systems

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