Program Development

UGA Extension has made a renewed commitment to program development as the guiding principle behind outreach efforts employed by agents and specialists. Program development principles guide the process of how Extension serves Georgia. It also ensures that the needs of communities and families are seen, heard, and responded to in a way that is unique to the local culture.

Program development is rooted in the concept that an orderly progression in planning, development and implementation brings forth the best outcomes. Advancing through planning outreach efforts by identifying needs, designing and implementing programs, evaluating effectiveness and reporting impact to stakeholders creates sustainability and viability in outreach efforts and relevancy to those who are served.

Another key principle to program development is cultivating community and stakeholder relationships. Developing ties in the community brings out a greater sense of understanding and a spirit of collaboration.

As with those served by Extension, program development is fluid and flexible, and by design, should be responsive to the changing needs of communities. Researched practices and information have been the backbone of UGA Cooperative Extension since its inception. A renewed energy behind program development enables UGA Extension to bolster its foundation, while building lasting change to Georgia.