A success-driven philanthropist wants to understand results and how to maximize them. Yet for the complex problems philanthropy tackles, results are rarely black and white. So instead of focusing energy on perfect metrics, focus on improving over time.
How can I judge if this is working?
Reflect on both your grantees' performance and your strategy to understand the connections between your activities and the outcomes you expect. This can help you identify where learning matters most—and how to learn best with and through your grantees.
Where might measurement help me?
The key is to focus on what data will directly inform your decision-making, and to be realistic about what numbers can tell you and what they can’t.
How can I learn from my experience?
The endless need for philanthropic dollars as well as the lack of competition means that you must impose standards of excellence upon yourself. This means acknowledging "failures," learning from others, and investing in experiments.
Case Studies
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The Bridgespan Group
What is the best way to help proven nonprofit models spread to new cities? John Simon tried several tactics and then invented a new approach.
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The Bridgespan Group
What would you do with one billion dollars? Peter and Jennifer Buffett were faced with this extraordinary challenge and opportunity.