AbstractThere is a wide variation in the ways in which expert opinion is incorporated into the evaluation process. Firstly, it depends on the audience for whcih the review is intended — is it internal or external? Then the goals may be specific (targeted) or general (untargeted) .This paper investigates each combination with specific examples from such organisations as IBM, the European Economic Community and the US National Science Foundation. Expert and peer review is a widely used form of evaluation: only competent peers can provide the detailed examination of content and constructive criticism of achievements which can improve program effectiveness rather than punishing its lack.