Project outputs are easier to evaluate than outcomes and impacts. Output measures indicate progress and reflect the level of efficiency. They must be tracked until project completion. Outcomes occur after completion of the project, or its segments or phases. Agencies use intermediate outcomes, if they can be identified, to assess progress towards outcomes of their IT projects before completion.
Agencies also use some output measures to assess progress toward project outcomes.
Customers and stakeholders are the ultimate judges of the outcomes and impact of an IT investment. Agencies can use business logic and common sense to assess whether the output of the IT project contributes to the effectiveness of their programs and mission accomplishments. After completing measurement reviews, the team or responsible component prepares reports and briefings that summarize and track the results over time. Simple, eye-catching graphics summarize performance data better than narrative alone. Examples of graphics include process charts, thermometer diagrams or a dashboard with dials to represent the Balanced Scorecard measures.