Abstract: Many research networks have emerged as means to increase research involvement, build research capacity, and develop a research culture, but little is known regarding their effectiveness. Evaluations require that networks have a clearly specified program theory and clearly specified objectives; many networks do not. This article describes the experience of the Complementary and Alternative Medicine Education and Research Network of Alberta, a network that undertook a modified evaluability assessment to assist in developing the network and to plan a meaningful evaluation. Lessons learned may help other research networks to think strategically and plan for effective evaluations.