Impact Measurement

Introduction

How can we demonstrate our impact and identify ways to enhance it?

Impact is a term that is often used quite loosely to imply any type of change or progress; however, it requires a more nuanced treatment related to the organization’s theory of change, not only in terms of proving that there were positive changes, but also improving over time. There are many definitions of impact, but it typically refers to the intended and unintended (positive or otherwise) changes (outputs and outcomes) that occur across the organization (within and/or across its programs) and with its stakeholders (e.g., users, clients and partners) over a period of time, short or long term, as a result of the organization’s activities.

Measurement not only seeks to understand what changes occur when, but also why and how. Most nonprofits are familiar with monitoring (tracking short-term outputs and outcomes) and evaluation (assessing longer-term outcomes and impact) approaches. Impact measurement also involves organizing and assessing the evidence base (what we know and what we want to learn) and getting feedback from clients and stakeholders.

In this way, impact measurement is not just about proving impact, but also about improving impact through nurturing a data-driven and evidence-informed culture that promotes results, learning and constant improvement.

Organizations Leading the Coaching Pilot

Impact Measurement coaching support

Many nonprofits, charities and social enterprises are seeking to better understand how to describe the impact that they are having on the people, organizations and issues they encounter in their line of work. At the same time, there is greater pressure to demonstrate impact to funders, boards and other stakeholders. In practice, impact measurement remains challenging, with inconsistent definitions, fragmented approaches and methods, and numerous technical and capacity challenges.

Innoweave’s Impact Measurement coaching stream strengthens the impact measurement approaches and capacities of nonprofits and charities by clarifying key concepts, reviewing potential approaches and choices, and applying actionable implementation guidance. This work includes:

• Introducing key concepts, issues and challenges in impact measurement
• Providing an overview of various approaches and tools for implementing organizations
• Highlighting selected themes to improve measurement practice, e.g., evidence and feedback
• Reviewing actionable guidance and strategies that organizations can apply and adapt
• Providing access to coaching support through Innoweave coaches