The Success Measures Data System (SMDS) is the web-based tool that allows organizations to manage their participatory evaluation process in a practical online environment. SMDS facilitates the evaluation process by providing a platform for users to capture a clear picture of benefits achieved, select outcome indicators, customize data collection tools, collect and tabulate results and export data.
Although sophisticated in its design, functionality, security and scale, the system is very easy to use.
With SMDS subscribing clients can:
- Design, implement, tabulate, and store evaluations and data
- Export data to Excel for more detailed analysis
- Share data with funders and stakeholders
- Manage and store all outcome data in one place rather than multiple files and databases
- Streamline the evaluation process for organizations of all sizes and levels of experience.
Subscribers can work online without needing any additional software. SMDS handles all the technology updates, maintenance and back-ups around-the-clock so clients can exclusively focus on managing their evaluation process and gathering, analyzing and using the data. Having outcome data in one place helps to ensure quality and consistency and allows for the analysis of data over time – all key components of evaluations taking place over the mid and long term.
Next Generation SMDS
Success Measures is constantly working to improve access and enhance the user experience for clients and partners. Current priorities include updating and creating the “next generation” in SMDS design, based on client feedback and state of the art technology, to facilitate access to Success Measures customized indicators and tools. In addition, use of mobile devices, expanded data analysis, mapping and visualization, photographic and video data functions will make conducting outcome evaluation easier and more accessible.
For information on how to become a Success Measures subscriber, please contact Bernadette Cabrera at 202.220.2330, bcabrera@nw.org
