Overview
Because effective approaches can only bring about widespread change if they are broadly implemented, P/PV devotes considerable attention to promoting strategies with proven track records of success. We do this by helping programs and funders scale up successful models (including management of select replication efforts), by providing technical assistance where needed, and by informing practitioners, funders and policymakers about what works.
To view the "Action" clip from P/PV's 30th anniversary video, click
here.
Scaling and Replicating Effective Programs
P/PV helps scale up highly effective, evidence-based social programs that make a real and lasting difference in people's lives. Historically there has been little guidance and expertise available to social programs to direct them on a secure path for growth. P/PV has developed a vast body of knowledge about successfully expanding and reproducing proven models. We have conducted research to examine programs' efforts to grow, including our study of Experience Corps' expansion in five cities. We have also worked with an array of nonprofit organizations, philanthropic entities and federal, state and local governments to support large-scale replications in various fields, assisting with three key tasks:
- Defining a Program's Essential Elements. By looking closely at a program's framework and implementation history, we identify key components that will be necessary to include when replicating the program in new sites. This process can also be a valuable precursor to rigorous evaluation, helping programs pinpoint the elements that are best suited for testing.
- Planning for Growth. Once it is clear that programs are ready, P/PV develops concrete, user-friendly manuals and training curricula to guide implementation in new communities and encourage fidelity to established program models.
- Managing National Replications. P/PV helps to craft and manage national replications by first assessing the feasibility and desirability of replication (including a review of the available evidence of effectiveness). We then help programs create the internal structures and processes as well as the funding streams needed to ensure effective large-scale replications.
To access a brochure about P/PV's approach to replicating social programs, click
here.
Providing Technical Assistance
P/PV provides targeted technical assistance to a wide variety of organizations, including those in P/PV-run demonstrations and initiatives, as well as individual programs seeking to improve their performance. Once we have worked to identify organizational needs, we assist in a number of ways, including: leading topic-specific trainings and workshops; conducting conference calls, webinars or on-site meetings; and establishing learning communities for organizations to share challenges, insights and successful strategies.
We work with programs to strengthen their capacity in a range of areas, including high-quality program implementation (based on "best practices" in mentoring, out-of-school time, employment, crime reduction and reentry, and community health), enhancing or creating effective data collection systems, establishing methods of continuous program improvement and preparing for program expansion.
Informing Practitioners, Funders and Policymakers about the Lessons of our Work
Each year, P/PV's many initiatives generate an impressive amount of data and point to important lessons in a variety of fields. We work to interpret these findings for funders and public officials, providing specific recommendations to inform their decisions at all levels of government. For more information about these efforts, see our Resource Centers for Funders and Policymakers. Similarly, we take the lessons from our work and disseminate them to program managers and staff, in the form of short, accessible reports and hands-on guides and tools. We also seek to build the capacity of service-delivery organizations through a number of leadership development academies and workshops for staff on the frontlines. See the Practitioners Resource Center for more information.
Related Publications
