A Systematic Approach to Process Evaluation in the Central Oklahoma Turning Point (COTP) Partnership

Abstract

Background: Formation is an important stage of partnership development. Purpose: To describe the systematic approach to process evaluation of a Turning Point initiative in central Oklahoma during the formation stage. The ninemonth collaborative effort aimed to develop an action plan to promote health. Methods: A sound planning framework was used in the design of a systematic approach to process evaluation. Mixed (qualitative and quantitative) methodology was used, including stakeholder interviews, surveys, and attendance logs. Results: Reach to the meetings ranged from 38% to 70%. “Collaboration membership” was statistically significantly associated with high attendance at the meetings. Strengths of the collaborative process included stakeholder diversity, a strong organizational structure and the use of a democratic collaborative process. Discussion: Building effective collaborative skills among the stakeholders early in the planning phase can be instrumental in promoting participation during the formation stage. In addition, emphasis should be given in strengthening/supporting of the coalition processes, coalition structures, leadership and staff. Translation to Health Education Practice: Process evaluation is a valuable tool for the continuous monitoring of the quality of the collaborative process during the formation stage, and therefore, minimum process evaluation measures should be incorporated at the early stages of the partnership development.