Recent advances in measurement have important implications for the quantitative instruments (measures, surveys, etc.) used in conducting evaluations. This Master Teacher Series presentation illustrates how the advances in measurement theory, specifically item response theory (IRT) and particularly Rasch models, have distinct advantages over classical test theory (CTT) measurement models in terms of the precision of the measures (surveys) and the response options we attach to these measures (Likert scales) we use to determine the effectiveness of the programs and interventions we evaluate. The presentation provides an accessible and understandable overview of Rasch, other IRT models and their differences; as well as how they can be used in developing evaluation measures, selecting survey response options, and accessing the precision of data we have already collected. The advantages of using Rasch and IRT approaches are illustrated in two evaluation – 1) health provider effectiveness from a large data set of a commercial health plan, and 2) national evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment approaches for addiction. #2015Conference