Impact evaluation of cluster-based policies. A practical guide for evaluation – targeting policy makers and other cluster stakeholders

This guide contains of theoretical and practical knowledge regarding the topic of Impact evaluation of cluster-based policies. The theoretical part focuses on brief introduction to the subject as it explains its components, such as overlapping impact dimensions, formative and summative evaluation, and counterfactual and theory-based impact evaluation, In a practical part, the guide provides an examples of evaluation methods that can be applied to cluster strategies. The guide offers a five recommendations that should be considered during the initial evaluation processes (Consider in advance the involvement and role of the principal, parties, stakeholders and external experts, Define the boundaries of the analysis – set clear objectives and realistic expectations, Support qualitative analysis with quantitative arguments, Allocate adequate resources and funding for impact assessment, Start impact analysis in the phase of agenda setting and policy formulation, and not with measuring long-term effects in the remote future). The guide also provides nine step for policy makers that should be helpful in a process of setting up an evaluation.