Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Applying Business Management Approaches to Independent Evaluation Consulting

Abstract

AbstractIndependent evaluation consultants frequently discuss “how‐to” strategies to determine ways to start or improve their practices. Mostly this involves sharing advice on a range of topics such as how and when to set up a corporate structure, what accounting software to use, how to develop new business, and where to work. Such advice also should include information about business theory that more broadly orients consultants to business planning. This movement, from the “how” to the “why,” is imperative for long‐term business success. This chapter introduces three widely accepted business books that cover niche identification, market focus, business development, smart business growth, and the importance of generosity with networking. The reader is oriented to these concepts through Amy, a fictitious, introverted independent evaluation consultant, and her new consulting practice, EduEval USA. Amy demonstrates how to identify appropriate goals and her niche market, develops a marketing approach that is appropriate for a service consultancy, and begins networking with other evaluators and educators in her community.