Storytelling Evaluation Method

Since 2017, Old Fire Station, Oxford has been using the Storytelling Evaluation Method (Storytelling) to evaluate the impact of its work. Instead of setting outcomes to measure against, we decided to let those we work with identify outcomes for themselves by telling us a story. What changed for them? How did it happen? Why is it important?

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Storytelling is a qualitative learning and evaluation approach inspired by Most Significant Change. It involves collecting stories from people about their participation in a project and then bringing other people together to analyse these stories collectively. Storytelling amplifies the voices of those closest to the work, supports meaningful collaboration, and produces nuanced insights. It is an enjoyable process that aims to be non-reductive, non-extractive, inclusive, and empowering – both illustrating and reinforcing the benefits of person-centred practice. 

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Storytelling is especially suitable for learning about the impact of holistic, relationship-based, and context-specific work that is difficult to evaluate using quantitative measures alone. It helps organisations to recognise unexpected outcomes and to understand how change happens. The Old Fire Station has now trained over 250 local and national partners in using this method, including other cultural organisations, local authorities, charities, voluntary and community groups, and university researchers. If you want to speak to the OFS Storytelling team about training or consultancy support, you can get in touch here.