| Session Title: The Value of Shared Metrics Approaches |
| Think Tank Session 628 to be held in Panzacola Section H4 on Friday, Nov 13, 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Sponsored by the Non-profit and Foundations Evaluation TIG |
| Presenter(s): |
| Mark Kramer, FSG Social Impact Advisors, mark.kramer@fsg-impact.org |
| Discussant(s): |
| Hallie Preskill, FSG Social Impact Advisors, hallie.preskill@fsg-impact.org |
| Becca Graves, FSG Social impact Advisors, becca.graves@fsg-impact.org |
| Abstract: Over the past decade, the field of nonprofit and foundation evaluation has experienced slow and difficult but inexorable progress toward the development of metrics. The prevailing paradigm, however, focuses on the results of specific grants or individual organizations, obscuring the potential for learning and alignment through which these evolving measurement processes could most powerfully increase social impact. In this think-tank, we will explore the potential for shared metrics approaches (defined as systems in which multiple organizations use a common set of measures to monitor performance or track progress toward goals) to increase efficiency, improve knowledge-sharing, and advance strategic alignment among similarly-focused organizations. Drawing on FSG's research and participants' experiences, we will consider questions such as: Under what conditions are shared metrics approaches most relevant and useful to the field? What would contribute to increased use of shared metrics approaches? What barriers must be broken down? Who should take the lead? |