Title:
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE ADOPTION OF OUTCOME HARVESTING AS AN EVALUATION APPROACH: A CASE OF SELECTED NON-GOVERMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

Authors:
Lucy Mumbi Wahome and Leon Awiti, PhD, Kenya

Abstract:
This study investigated the implementation of outcome harvesting as an evaluation tool within the nonprofit sector. Specifically, it examined its effectiveness, identified challenges, and proposed adoption strategies. Conducted as a descriptive survey, 30 monitoring and evaluation professionals from 15 NGOs in Nairobi were selected via purposive sampling. Data were gathered through semistructured interviews and analyzed with SPSS v27 and content analysis. Findings indicate that outcome harvesting is a key evaluation method, with 48% of respondents highlighting its efficacy in impact reporting and 56% noting its utility in deriving lessons. However, 56% identified the prevailing evaluation culture as a significant barrier. To improve adoption, most participants recommended early integration of the method and expert involvement. The study concludes that early and resource-backed application of outcome harvesting is crucial for capturing project impacts and lessons and calls for a shift in evaluation culture.