Defining "quality" in evaluation

"Evaluation quality" is a human construct capable of multiple definitions. Using the literature in product and service quality as a guide, this paper defines and illustrates three approaches to defining quality: a product-based view, a manufacturing-based view, and a user-based view. The paper discusses advantages and disadvantages of each view and describes five dimensions- performance, conformance, product quality, utility, and perceived quality-comprising a com- prehensive view of quality. The paper argues that the emerging profession of evaluation should articulate a vision of quality for its clients.