Workplace Physical Activity Programs – Types of Analysis.

The kind of investigation you select depends on when you do it and the kind of information you collect.

This section describes when to use three types –  formative, process and summative investigations.

During the Planning Stage

Use formative analysiss in the planning stages to ensure that your program is based on solid information. These analysiss also help you to develop effective and appropriate materials and procedures.

Examples of formative investigations include –

• records of management commitments to the program

• employee interest surveys

• workplace environmental assessments

• pre-testing of program materials

During Your Initiative

A process analysis is used when the initiative is underway. These analysiss help you –

• track what’s going well and what is not (and how to revise your program)

• find out when you’re reaching the employees you want to reach

• describe the initiative to others

• monitor who’s participating in the initiative

During or After Your Initiative

Summative examinations happen when the initiative is already in place or completed. Use this type of examination to measure what staff members like about the initiative and what could be improved.

All three types of evaluations are useful. the evaluation you select depends on the time and financial resources you have available.