Evaluation is the final stage of the event management process. It is important to evaluate whether the event was successful, why it was or wasn’t successful and how to improve the event for the future. Don’t forget to review your objectives at the start of the planning process to ensure that you have considered how you will evaluate your objectives following the event. Evaluation measures may include attendance count, survey of attendance, survey of supplies and general feedback.
Be sure to review:
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Feedback on the event from suppliers, attendees, participants and sponsors
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Your achievements and the successes of the event
Some questions to consider in your event evaluation
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Was the event within budget? Do you need to apply for more funding or sponsorship next time or could the event be restricted to ensure it stays within budget?
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How many people attended the event? Was this less or more than anticipated?
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What were your achievements and successes?
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Did you allow enough time to plan?
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Did you reach your target audience?
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Was the marketing plan successful? Why or why not?
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Was sponsorship of the event successful? What benefits did your group and sponsors receive as a result of this partnership?
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What promotion or media attention did you receive for the event?
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Was the theme and timing appropriate?
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Was the venue and facilities adequate (e.g. parking, toilets, food?)
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Was the event infrastructure adequate?
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Were your suppliers and performers professional, entertaining and value for money?
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What improvements would you make next time
An evaluation template can be downloaded from the Related Documents section below.
Remember to thank your sponsors and volunteers!
Funding acquittals
The final task that you may need to complete following your event, is acquitting your funding. Include some photos and describable outcomes from your event. Most funders have a set form of what reporting they require from the event. If you are unsure of how to do your acquittal, contact the relevant Grants Officer for assistance.
Keep clear records and receipts of your expenditure as you go about organising the event, to minimise the amount of work required to finalise your acquittal.