Unit 14 Process Journal: Evaluation
One of our team’s mainstay opportunities is implementation, which by default impacts evaluation. When I think about this stage of the process and our current status, I am very much considering how we define evaluation through the lenses of reviewing & revising and asking if we solved the problem that we identified (Test, Fix, Retest) and determine the appropriate next steps to turn our problem into a reality (Optimization Finding). Further, we could have done a better job of measuring progress and soliciting feedback from stakeholders and peers, which may have affected implementation not to mention earlier detection of flaws and ways to improve.
Collectively, we WANT to make sure that our solution solves a real-world problem — the data backs this up. However, one piece that I go back to often is realizing that finding a scalable solution for a problem that requires such individual personalization and customization is no easy task. As much as we desire a solution that is realistic, feasible, accessible, and affordable for individuals and is yet scalable is challenging in itself, so this is a very tall order! And although we expect a fair and accurate report on performance, I think identifying mistakes and overcoming our shortcomings will be an “a-ha” moment and a strategy for planning for improvement. We have yet to establish our measurement strategy + success criteria, but I imagine it will certainly outline our goals & objectives, our wins & achievements, and lastly insights into ways of improving.
Although I maintained a process journal throughout this course to evaluate and reflect on my productivity, I did not use the journal as a means to “compete against myself,” “pay as I go,” nor to reward my productivity. The latter may be a personal opportunity of battling my imposter syndrome, and thats something that I continue to work on every day — that’s just my own understanding of how I function. I’m looking forward to when my group and I observe other group’s presentation on how they approached their problem definition and solution, then considering their feedback and evaluation.
One thing that resonates strongly with me in a professional capacity is “Feedback is a gift,” so my personal goal is to really hear peer input and ask for recommendations for improvements. Being able to step back and accept feedback, regardless if it is positive or an opportunity, is always for the benefit. Unlike the meme here with Mr Burns from the Simpsons shredding (literally and metaphorically) Homer’s feedback, its important to remember positive intent.











