Transition experiments are thought to be important tools for achieving transformational change in the urban water system. The governance of these experiments is described as a key factor in the success of these experiments. This paper sets out to operationalize and validate an evaluative scheme for the appraisal of transition experiments. This paper employs a case study approach to evaluate the governance of two transition experiments through the application of the evaluative scheme. This research indicates that learning-by-doing and applying the principles of good governance are enabling factors for realizing stakeholder empowerment and social change. The large size of the evaluative scheme is a point of concern for the broad applicability and usability of the framework as a common method for evaluation.