5. Theory-Based Evaluations: Guidelines for Case Studies in Program and Project Evaluation

This chapter deals with theory-based evaluation. It traces the factors that contributed to a specific outcome for the project. This is a challenging task for project evaluation as it requires establishing a causal chain based upon theoretical considerations and analyzing data on various links in this causal chain. This chapter provides a guidebook for those interested in conducting case studies in project evaluation determining the impact of various projects in combating corruption. The author provides a conceptual framework and data requirements for such evaluation case studies for privatization programs, judicial and legal reforms, civil service reforms, trade liberalization, tax administration reforms, and direct anticorruption activities (anticorruption agencies, the office of the ombudsman, transparency rules, and decentralization).