Developmental evaluation beyond the label

Developmental evaluation (DE) was originally conceived as a way to support adaptation, often in situations of high complexity and innovation. We are seeing more initiatives informally integrate developmental evaluation and weaving it together with the language and ideas of human learning systems, social learning, adaptive strategy, and systems change. Timeframes are tighter. Expectations are sharper. The pressure to move to solutions is real. Yet the need for disciplined adaptation has not disappeared. In fact, it has intensified. In this webinar, Jamie, Jess and Zoe will explore how the developmental evaluation toolkit is being applied in today’s conditions, often without the label and often in surprisingly pragmatic ways. We will discuss how DE supports systems and how evaluation strategies can be shaped in different levels of uncertainty. Importantly, we will share real examples and unpack what developmental evaluation looks like in action: from shifts in institutional purchasing and healthcare practice to changes in accountability within child protection systems. How were early signals of change recognised? What leading indicators were tracked? How were learning moments translated into concrete decisions? What trade-offs were tested? Join a grounded conversation on how developmental evaluation strengthens adaptive strategy in complex environments while maintaining rigour. This session will help you see where developmental evaluation skills matter and how they can be applied with confidence.