Blending features of the MSC technique and ‘Appreciative Inquiry’, the evaluation summit is characterised by the inclusion of a large group workshop process in which a range of stakeholders and implementers are encouraged to participate. It is held in the final stages of an evaluation. Going beyond merely consulting stakeholders, the evaluation summit technique sees stakeholders analysing data including vignettes (or stories) and synthesising key outcomes.

The purpose of the summit workshop is to ensure that judgments made in the evaluation process are based on values of the stakeholders as opposed to the evaluators. It is the participants at the workshop who ultimately decide ‘what the data means’. Because participants play an active role in the forming of the findings there is a much greater chance of ownership of the results, and thus that they will be implemented. The workshop process culminates in participants developing recommendations.

This technique was developed by Jess Dart from Clear Horizon and has been employed in a variety of contexts, with external consultants playing the role of the facilitator. The technique has proven itself well in evaluating initiatives, which are more complex and far reaching than single projects, and thus generally harder to evaluate. The technique is an excellent way to involving a wide range of key stakeholders in an engaged and constructive manner, and helps to validate the data. The approach is designed to mediate differences of opinion and bring people together to agree on a series of recommendations. This has proven true for Clear Horizon in the past when there have been wide spread of opinions.