Transforming evaluation from measurement to learning catalyst
Our Philosophy
Evaluation isn’t just about measuring outcomes—it’s about telling the story of what you do and the impact you create. We believe transformative change requires learning systems that adapt, evolve, and generate actionable insights in complex environments.
By doing better evaluations, you tell more compelling stories.
Design-Driven Evaluation
We view programs and services as part of dynamic, living systems. This transforms evaluation from assessment tool to catalyst for adaptive change.
Our Specialties
Developmental Evaluation
Supporting innovation and adaptation where traditional approaches fall short.
Principles-Focused Evaluation
Creating frameworks based on guiding principles that flex with changing contexts.
Systems-Oriented Evaluation
Identifying leverage points, boundaries, and relationships that drive system change.
Design-Driven Evaluation
Embedding evaluative thinking throughout implementation—evaluation as part of the innovation, not adjunct to it.
After-Action Reviews & Sensemaking
Processing what you’ve done, debriefing, finding insights, and translating them into actions.
Beyond Data to Meaning
Making Sense of Complexity
- Multiple Perspectives: Capturing diverse voices, especially those marginalized in decision-making
- Creative Visualization: Transforming complex data into accessible, actionable insights
- Rapid Prototyping: Testing evaluation frameworks quickly before full-scale implementation
- User-Centered Assessment: Considering the experience of all users—data collectors and providers
Creating Learning Systems
Seamless Integration
- Embedded Feedback Loops: Evaluation findings flow directly into decision-making
- Capacity Building: Equipping organizations to gather, interpret, and act on data independently
- Adaptive Strategy Support: Using insights to navigate complexity and uncertainty
- Systems Change Assessment: Understanding how interventions affect broader systems
- Theories of Change: Articulating value propositions and understanding change mechanisms
The Cense Difference
Drawing on our principal expertise as a Credentialed Evaluator and a pioneer in design-driven approaches, we bring particular strength to health innovation, social change, and the transformation of complex systems.
What Sets Us Apart
Evaluation as Service: Creating ongoing, adaptive systems rather than one-time reports
Design + Evaluation: Integrating disciplines to support continuous improvement and innovation
Utilization Focus: Ensuring findings are accessible, meaningful, and actionable for all stakeholders
Rigor + Creativity: Combining methodological expertise with innovative approaches to data collection and sense-making
Ready to Transform Your Story?
Whether developing new programs, adapting to change, or seeking deeper impact understanding, our learning systems approach provides frameworks to navigate complexity and drive meaningful change.
Let’s design an evaluation that serves your mission and tells your story.
