Impact Measurement FrameworkResults Based Accountability (RBA)
Author(s): Mark Friedman
Target Market: Community organizations and public agencies
Overview: Focuses on accountability in programs that are publicly funded. Steps users through a process of setting what their goals and objectives are, and then working backwards from this to develop key metrics for measurement
Data Collection / Measurement Method:
- Organizations articulate what outcomes their programs are to achieve
- Indicators and key metrics are developed to measure these outcomes
- Performance standards and benchmarks are developed to assess program progress
- Data collection plan is designed for ongoing data collection and monitoring
Scoring Method: Data is collected based on metrics selected.
Key Points:
- Organizations are able to measure their outcomes across a specified timeframe
- Qualitative data collection forms part of the RBA methodology, which can prove challenging when comparing across time periods or across programs
- Reports generated can be lengthy, particularly around the presentation of qualitative data – risks the user incorrectly representing the data
- Users are required to choose their own metrics and indicators, which means some level of outcomes measurement capability and understanding is required within the organization