This weekend’s New York Time Magazine article, “For Good, Measure”, very positively advocated the need for measurement and the importance of effectiveness among foundations and nonprofits. It’s about time this topic made its way to national newspapers. After all, it’s been important to participants in the nonprofit sector, and those who really care about it, for years.

Although we are happy that this topic was addressed and brought to the attention of thousands, it’s rather sad that it’s taken this long to make its way to the top of people’s minds – to finally become important enough to discuss openly and among the public. What’s even more upsetting is that even though measurement is vital in understanding organizational impact and ensuring effectiveness, according to the article, barely half of foundations take metrics into consideration, evaluating the effectiveness of those whom they provide grants.   Why wouldn’t they track all 100 percent?  Just like donors, wouldn't they want to make sure their money is well spent? Check out someone who feels similarly, here.

Thankfully, new philanthropists are standing up and asking, Am I making a difference? How do you know?  And the answer provided in the article tells them, “If you really want to change the world, first you need to start measuring how (and how much) you’re changing it — because only a clear understanding of your results will enable you to expand the programs that work and jettison the ones that don’t”. At least they are steering them in the right direction.

Check it out, our own Steve Butz voiced his opinion in the blogosphere here.

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