Functions of the evaluation proposal in preordinate and emergent studies

Proposals satisfy a number of functions in evaluation work. They may serve as a work plan, a basis for a contract, a request for commitment, evidence of ability, an evaluative criterion, and, most importantly, to justify the conduct of the study. This article examines how these functions differ depending on whether the proposal concerns a preordinate study in which methods are pre-specified, or an emergent study in which decisions about methods are made as the study proceeds.