Позитивные изменения. Том 3, № 4 (2023). Positive changes. Volume 3, Issue 4(2023)

To evaluate the increase or decrease in statistics concerning the problem at the regional level, an analysis of the dynamics of municipal statistics is necessary, focusing on the selected indicators the project attempts to impact. The changes can be assessed by comparing the baseline and final values of the chosen indicators. If the indicators are increasing, the growth can be monetized by using the economic benefit assessment method, which takes into account additional revenue or decreased costs resulting from improved statistics.

Indicators assessed at the territory level and relevant to the scope of project implementation to date include those for which several years’ worth of data is[134]. These figures can be used to compare and assess the changes in various indicators, the degree to which those indicators were impacted by the projects, etc., namely:

• the number of students attending additional education institutions;

• the count of children in orphanages;

• the seating capacity of cultural and leisure centers;

• the number of attendees at cultural and leisure events;

• the count of movie screenings/viewers;

• the number of library visitors;

• the frequency of visits to museums and other similar institutions;

• the enrollment numbers in municipal sports establishments;

• the student count in children’s sports schools;

• the number of visitors to special interest clubs.

If a project claims to rank high on this criterion’s scale, the following data will be needed for assessment:

• The specific indicator targeted by the project for which statistics are published;

• Indicators before, during, and after the project implementation.

These dynamics must reflect the project’s focus — reducing negative indicators and enhancing positive ones.

7. Territorial Coherence

This criterion reflects how well the project is tailored to address the specific issues of high relevance to the territory.

Evaluating territorial coherence requires analyzing the reach of the audience that gained access to the social technology aimed at solving relevant problems of the area.

The assessment can utilize quantitative analysis of projects that address issues whose significance for the territory is affirmed by external sources, such as those mentioned in the region’s Quality of Life Index and other similar indices. For instance, “N% of successfully completed grant projects were directed at resolving issues confirmed to be of high relevance for the region.”

The following set of criteria, numbered 8 to 11, falls into the ‘hygienic’ category, i.e., reflecting general recommendations applicable to any social project.

8. Presence of an Evidence Base for the Social Technology Used

This criterion reflects whether the project is founded on social technology or practice substantiated by scientific theories, research findings in the relevant field, and the experiences and opinions of the beneficiaries.

9. Presence of a Monitoring System This criterion reflects whether the project involves regular data collection throughout its implementation. This includes maintaining statistics (such as inquiries, number of services rendered, visitor counts, calls), as well as gathering feedback through questionnaires, interviews, etc

This model is adaptable for other regions, and its various components — the evaluation criteria, indicators, and approaches for developing diagnostic tools — could be effectively utilized in formulating assessment models for federal projects and programs.

10. Presence of Indicators for Assessing Project Effectiveness

This criterion reflects whether the project has developed and is currently employing a system of performance indicators for each implementation phase. These indicators should be clearly described, with an elaborated assessment methodology, including tools and data collection procedures.

11. Presence of a Data Collection and Media Presence Monitoring System