Context
A leading forestry company in the region sought to evaluate the outcomes and impact of its social investment projects in the town where it operates. The objective was to assess not only the social value and community benefits of its CSR activities but also their influence on the company’s reputation, stakeholder relations, and brand positioning.

Solutions Provided

• Developed a comprehensive social impact assessment methodology grounded in recognized frameworks, tailored to capture both social outcomes and business/brand impact.
• Conducted the assessment, including field research, stakeholder engagement, and data analysis, culminating in a final report with actionable insights and recommendations to enhance the strategic value of CSR activities.

Project Duration:
16 weeks

Project Team:

• Project Lead (myself)
• Social Science Expert
• Junior Analysts and Research Assistants

Deliverables:

• Social Impact Assessment Methodology (xls)
• Data Collection Toolkit – including questionnaires, interview guides, and informed consent forms (doc)
• Comprehensive Assessment Report with key findings, impact analysis, and strategic recommendations (PDF)

Project Approach

1. Collaborated with a social science expert to design an impact assessment framework informed by the Theory of Change and Lean Impact principles, ensuring alignment with the client’s strategic goals. Secured client approval of the approach.
2. Oversaw the design and piloting of data collection tools, ensuring methodological rigor and ethical compliance. Secured client approval of the data collection toolkit.
3. Led the field research phase, including interviews and focus groups with project beneficiaries, community stakeholders, local residents, and subject matter experts.
4. Supervised the data analysis and synthesis of findings
5. Delivered a final report with clear visualizations, impact narratives, and practical recommendations for improving future CSR initiatives and enhancing business value.

Outcomes

• Provided the client with an evidence-based understanding of the social and brand impact of its CSR initiatives.
• Identified key strengths and gaps in project design, implementation, and communication.
• Delivered strategic recommendations based on the identified gaps and community feedback
• Strengthened the client’s ability to monitor, evaluate, and communicate the value of its social investments to both internal and external audiences.