How to Manage Pressure to Change Reports: Should Evaluators Be Above Criticism?

Abstract

When is it appropriate, and consistent with ethical standards, for evaluators to modify reports in response to “requests” from clients to do so? Some evaluators may view any pressure to make any changes in their reports as an attack on their independence. While, clearly, it is not acceptable for evaluators to be asked to distort or misrepresent findings and conclusions, evaluators, no less than anyone else, should be open to feedback and not be above criticism. This article discusses under what circumstances and in what forms it may be appropriate, or not, for evaluators to be given feedback and requested to consider appropriate modifications to their reports. It then identifies steps that evaluators can take to minimize inappropriate “suggestions” for change, and what they can do in the event that this does happen. It also considers implications, and strategies, for internal as well as for external evaluators.