Outcome evaluation assesses the results or benefits of mental health services received by clients or communities by comparing descriptive data on the mental health status of clients at different points in time. It aids clinicians and managers in planning programs and managing clinical services. A mental health center should establish goal-oriented program planning, information systems, and quality assurance programs before it attempts client outcome evaluation. Outcome studies are still in the developmental stages and should be conducted when there are clearly defined needs, available resources, and clinical and managerial agreement regarding the uses of the resultant data. Seven outcome evaluation methods are described and referenced: (1) level of functioning scales; (2) multidimensional ratings; (3) SCL-90 Symptom Checklist; (4) goal attainment scaling; (5) client satisfaction follow-up questionnaire; (6) community satisfaction studies; and (7) consultation and education outcomes. Client outcome studies can be continuous and provide on-going feedback, or they can be terminal and provide information about a particular service or group of clients. These studies assist in forming policy, developing programs, and justifying programs. (Author/MLT)