Program evaluation is a skill that requires qualified people to conduct an evaluation that is credible. The reason I took this course was to gain basic knowledge of program evaluation. As I became involved in the readings and assignments in class, I discovered a deep level of respect for this application. I have found that evaluations should pay attention to all stakeholders who engage in program and evaluation efforts. This process allows a full range of people and groups to take part in the evaluation; this is also a way to identify and develop stakeholder needs. Evaluation should be integrated into all preliminary stages of program development. A preliminary step in the evaluation process is to define the details of the program. This shared effort can generate a mutual understanding of the program and evaluation process. In the environment where I work this is an unknown process, the evaluation of the program takes place at the end of the year. In most cases, most programs are unsuccessful because they have unrealistic goals and outcomes. Assessments can be formative and summative. Formative evaluations are conducted in the program development and implementation phase. This process can be helpful because it provides the program with information on how to best achieve goals or make changes. Summative evaluations occur when programs are well established and inform the degree to which the program is achieving its outcomes and objectives (Patton, 1987). Evaluations generally deal with the usefulness, success, and failure of programs. However, the common sense assessment has an incredibly extensive chronicle; evaluation research that depends on… half of the paper… being well prepared for the obstacles, I will be successful and in time become an effective evaluator. Ultimately, selecting an authentic evaluation plan and evaluation questions will lead to consideration of program structure, stakeholders, and community members. This in turn will build trust with all parties involved in the evaluation process. Building trust will enable the evaluator to conduct an assessment that describes the understanding and capabilities of all stakeholders. This process will also enable the evaluation strategy to support program objectives and outcomes and will also evaluate program strengths and weaknesses. The program evaluation will indicate what changes and improvements are needed in the program. The evaluation plan is the blueprint for what will be conducted.