In general, effective assessment programs are part of a larger curriculum management process.  The focus of assessment should be the continual improvement of student learning. 

Effective Assessment:

• Is mission driven
• Faculty owned
• Addresses all key learning objectives
• Includes multiple methods, including some direct measures (observations) of student learning
• Has adequate support
• Leads to improved student learning. 

A useful list, Characteristics of an Effective Assessment Program has been developed by the Center for Assessment and Research Studies at James Madison University:  http://www.jmu.edu/assessment/effective.htm.