Program Planning Resource

Program planning is a multi-step process that generally begins with the definition of the problem and development of an evaluation plan. Although specific steps may vary, they usually include a feedback loop, with findings from program evaluation being used for program improvement.

The types of steps that are generally used in program planning are listed in the table below, along with selected resources that may be useful at each step. 

Using Evidence-Based Resources for Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation
Step	Description	Suggested Resources
1	Identify primary health issues in your community	Community Health Assessment aNd Group Evaluation (CHANGE) County Health Rankings National Public Health Performance Standards MAPP (Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships)
2	Develop measurable process and outcome objectives to assess progress in addressing these health issues	Healthy People 2020 Leading Health Indicators HEDIS® (Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set) performance measures
3	Select effective interventions to help achieve these objectives	The Guide to Community Preventive Services The Guide to Clinical Preventive Services Health Evidence National Guideline Clearinghouse
4	Implement selected interventions	Partnership for Prevention CDCynergy
5	Evaluate selected interventions based on objectives; use this information to improve program	Framework for Program Evaluation in Public Health CDCynergy
1-5	All of the above	The Community Health Promotion Handbook: Action Guides to Improve Community Health Cancer Control P.L.A.N.E.T. (Plan, Link, Act, Network with Evidence-based Tools) Community Tool Box Diffusion of Effective Behavioral Interventions (DEBI)