This paper presents a model of evaluation developed over a period of s
ome 8 years. The aim was to provide a method by which direct service a
gencies in the mental health and substance abuse al eas could cost eff
ectively and appropriately evaluate their programs. The process adopte
d was constructed in line with fourth generation ideals alongside an a
cknowledgement of practitioner wisdom. Our desire was to utilize evalu
ation not only for performance assessment but also to be an interventi
on method in itself. Our aim was to integrate evaluation practice in e
veryday professional activity and promote a solution to the problems o
f cross-sectoral service users. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Lt
d