A critical, integrative review on evaluating systems change and transformation, Part One: 2011–2021
Emily Gates et al.
Abstract
Calls for evaluating systems change and transformation in multiple fields present an opportunity to explore cross-field patterns. This article reports on part one of a critical, integrative review of academic and gray literature published between 2011 and 2021 (n = 102) within five areas: evaluation, health, organizational change, sustainability, and philanthropy. Questions address key definitions, how a systemic approach differs from traditional social problem-solving, leverage points to influence change, and implications for evaluation. Four findings include (1) limited normative debate about change and transformation; (2) conventional and systemic approaches contrasted as binary paths; (3) 10 shared leverage areas with the least attention on power and resources; and (4) an expanded role for evaluation that presents challenges and opportunities. Review results provide support for shifts underway within the evaluation field, including funders working in deeper collaborations, evaluators expanding their skill sets, and intermediary agencies facilitating transdisciplinary exchanges.
2 citations
Evidence weight
Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40
| F · citation impact | 0.25 × 0.4 = 0.10 |
| M · momentum | 0.55 × 0.15 = 0.08 |
| V · venue signal | 0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03 |
| R · text relevance † | 0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20 |
† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.