Presented herein are techniques for setting operational parameters of an implantable medical device system based on a combination of at least one monopolar stimulation measurement and one or more multipolar (focused) stimulation measurements. In particular, the techniques presented herein perform at least one objective or behavioral measurement using monopolar stimulation, and the same objective or behavioral measurement using focused stimulation with one or more degrees of focusing. Hearing outcomes/responses evoked in response to each of the measurements are captured/recorded and evaluated relative to one another to set one or more operational parameters, such as the degree of focusing, of the implantable medical device or implantable medical device system.