Network Evaluation from the Everyday Life Perspective – a Tool for Capacity Building and Voice

Despite the rich literature on networks, publications on the evaluation of networks are scarce. The aim of the article is to present the core concepts of network evaluation in the context of local and regional development, and a case study in Finnish North-Karelia. It is argued that network evaluation from the everyday life perspective (NEELP) is a special case. It requires an integrative design and the building of a collective monitoring and self-evaluation system with a variety of enabling and traditional assessment tools. It contributes to the empowerment and capacity building of individuals and groups of people who are involved in the co-creation of their contexts, while it also strives to recognize the complex systemic aspects of the environment.