The Best Impact Measurement Tools for Funders

Good tools collect proportionate data and produce clear, timely reporting for boards and the public.

• Standard outcome libraries and templates.
• Automated reminders and pre‑filled fields.
• Dashboards and narrative summaries.

Choosing the right approach

Start simple and expand as needs grow.

• Align questions with programme outcomes.
• Use standard indicators across funds where possible.
• Combine metrics with short case studies.

Key takeaway: Plinth integrates collection and reporting end to end.

Avoiding burden

Respect grantee capacity and context.

• Keep surveys short; avoid data you won’t use.
• Allow uploads of existing evidence.
• Provide examples and guidance.

Key takeaway: quality beats quantity for learning and accountability.

From data to decisions

Make results actionable for strategy and practice.

• Compare cohorts and identify drivers of success.
• Share insights across teams and partners.
• Adjust criteria and support offers accordingly.

Key takeaway: impact tools should lead to better funding decisions.

FAQs

Do we need a bespoke framework?

Often no—start with a simple outcome library and iterate.

Can we report in real time?

Yes—dashboards update as reports are submitted.

How do we keep data safe?

Use secure platforms with clear access controls and encryption.