[DSRP Evidence](https://dsrpevidence.org/)

# Systems Evaluation: Applying Systems Thinking to Evaluation

## Details

**Authors** Kushner J, Cabrera L, Cabrera D

**Year** 2023

**Publisher** Handbook of Systems Thinking

**Kind of work** chapter, article

[Read it at the publisher](https://doi.org/10.54120/jost.0000038) 
10.54120/jost.0000038

## In authors' words

### Abstract

Logic models have been the mainstay of evaluation for many years. But what happens when the logic is illogical or incomplete? These widely used popular tools have many shortcomings that can misguide evaluation itself. A systems view remedies these shortcomings and reveals extended logic that can be incorporated into a new kind of logic model that becomes the foundation of system evaluation in the future. In this chapter, we articulate a new model derived directly from the theory of change that aptly guides the evaluation of any complex system, problem, or issue. In addition, we explain how programmatic systems based program evaluations ‘roll up’ to important ideas around collective impact.

## Commentary

### Response

Published in the Handbook of Systems Thinking (Cabrera, Cabrera & Midgley, eds., 2023), a volume built on the premise that systems thinking now has a universal theory—DSRP-484. Its contents were selected on that basis by its editorial team in concert with a team of advisors.

**Patterns it shows** D, S, R, P

## Refers to

- [Handbook of Systems Thinking](https://dsrpevidence.org/element/382)

**How to cite this** Kushner J, Cabrera L, Cabrera D (2023). Systems Evaluation: Applying Systems Thinking to Evaluation. Handbook of Systems Thinking.