The Case for Proving Impact

“The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works—whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end.” – President Barack Obama

How prepared are we, the social service sector, to clearly demonstrate that our interventions work? Do we have adequate evidence of our impact? Can we clearly account for “the counter-factual,” quantify “net-impact,” and demonstrate that the benefits produced by our sector clearly outweigh the costs? While those of us who work in human services undoubtedly understand the value produced by our good work, increasingly policy makers, taxpayers and donors are asking “what is the value of our investment?” Our ability to measure and demonstrate impact is as pressing now as it ever has been. Read the rest of this entry →