Knowledge Utilization in Evaluation Efforts: The Role of Recommendations

Abstract

The utilization of evaluations is an important knowkdge utilization problem. This study focused on the role that recommendations played in evaluation utilization, and included (a) the form and content of recommendations, (b) their relationship to the purposes and findings of the evaluation, (c) the process by which they were developed, and (d) the factors that influenced their utilization. A coordinated case study methodology was used. Factors influencing the utilization of recommendations mirrored the factors enhancing general utilization of evaluations. However, the use of recommendations influenced general utilization by creating an early, negotiated, and public focus on decision implications. Implications of the study for knowledge utilization are discussed. © 1988, Sage Publications. All rights reserved.