Evaluating local system change using a comparative maturity matrix

This article focuses on the evaluation of the Children’s Community programme, addressing the question: how can evaluators effectively address complex place-based system change initiatives, particularly those working across differing contexts? After considering alternatives, including what we describe as ‘first-generation’ linear, logic model-based approaches and second-generation Theory of Change approaches, we discuss the development of ‘third-generation’ systems-change evaluations and articulate a novel comparative maturity matrix approach, developed for the evaluation of Children’s Communities with potential wider applicability for evaluation of complex systems change interventions. The article discusses the evaluation approach in depth and concludes with reflection on what learning points may be derived for use in subsequent evaluations of place-based and complex systems change initiatives.