Social Impact Assessment: A Key to effective CSR | Nasscom Foundation

Описание: What does ‘impact’ really mean in the CSR space?

In this interview, Divyanand Raj, Deputy Director – Impact & Measurement, @nasscom foundation dives deep into how real impact goes far beyond numbers and how impact and measurement work hand-in-hand to drive meaningful change, ensuring every program not only meets its goals but also creates lasting value for communities.

Understanding ‘Impact’:

“In the realm of CSR and social sector work, we say that any change that we influence or catalyse for the citizens that we work for, any change in their economic condition, their social condition, their educational condition that helps them overcome their limitations, helps them succeed, we will call that as impact.” - Divyanand Raj.

Social Impact Assessment (SIA) is a powerful tool that enables organizations to evaluate and assess the impact of their CSR activities. When it comes to implementing successful CSR programs, measuring impact is crucial. By understanding the desired outcomes and tracking progress, organizations can make informed decisions, optimize strategies, and maximize their social and environmental impact.

As CSR programs unfold, regular measurement helps to identify any potential gaps or challenges. This enables timely adjustments and ensures that the program remains aligned with its original goals. Ultimately, by measuring impact, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, accountability, and positive social change.

Why assessing and measuring impact is important?

Informed Decision-Making: SIA helps organizations identify potential risks and opportunities, leading to more informed and strategic decision-making.

Enhanced Accountability: By measuring and reporting on social impact, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

Improved Program Design: Impact assessment provides valuable insights that can be used to refine and optimize program design, ensuring maximum impact.

Risk Mitigation: By identifying potential negative impacts upfront, organizations can take proactive steps to mitigate risks and avoid unintended consequences.

A key step in this process is articulating a clear theory of change. This involves outlining the causal chain that links program activities to desired outcomes. By identifying key milestones and indicators, organizations can monitor progress and assess whether the program is on track.

Nasscom Foundation's Journey

Nasscom Foundation has made significant strides in its journey towards creating lasting social impact. A key strategy has been to transition from an activity-based approach to a result-based programming design.

This shift involves a four-pronged framework:
Design: Developing well-structured programs aligned with clear objectives and measurable outcomes.

Measure: Implementing robust monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress and impact.

Review: Conducting regular reviews and evaluations to assess program effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Learn: Continuously learning from experiences and adapting strategies to optimize impact.

By prioritizing a result-based approach, nasscom foundation ensures that the initiatives are not only well-intentioned but also deliver tangible and sustainable benefits. This commitment to evidence-based decision-making allows for timely adjustments and maximizes the impact of their programs.

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