Remade to Measure: Applying Impact Measurement Theory to Non-profit Organizations -- A Case Study

Non-profit organizations are increasingly called upon by their stakeholders to demonstrate success and impact in the delivery of their mission objectives. Despite sophisticated IT systems in the enterprise, many organizations still struggle to implement processes to meet these demands. This case study examines methodological approaches for data-driven program evaluation and planning based on theoretical frameworks of goal-oriented program planning. We used an iterative approach, combining review of relevant literature and semi-structured interviews with thought-leaders familiar with the challenges of program measurement. Our findings demonstrate that theoretical frameworks, including "Theory of Change," can provide a roadmap for program evaluation, and can be applied to the redesign and modification of existing IT systems in the enterprise. Findings from this case study may contribute to the efforts of other non-profit organizations in making use of readily available data to better identify short, medium, and long-term goals in the service of their missions.