What type of evaluation approach is particularly useful in situations characterized by complexity or uncertainty?

The developmental evaluation approach is particularly useful in complex or uncertain situations because it allows for ongoing feedback and adaptation throughout the program or intervention's lifecycle. Unlike traditional or summative evaluations, which tend to focus on measuring outcomes and effectiveness after implementation or at a predetermined point in time, developmental evaluation is intended to support learning and improvement in real-time.

In complex environments where conditions are continuously changing, developmental evaluation encourages flexibility and responsiveness. It enables practitioners to gather data and insights as they work, which helps to refine strategies, adjust goals, and respond to emerging challenges. This approach fosters innovation by prioritizing learning and adaptation rather than strictly assessing what has been achieved in a fixed framework.

By integrating evaluation into the development process, teams can better navigate uncertainty, ensuring that their programs remain relevant and effective as they evolve. This kind of approach is essential in contexts such as social innovation, organizational change, or any setting where the path forward is not clearly defined.