From setting goals to conducting surveys, nonprofits are using practical methods to measure and communicate their impact
In today’s world, nonprofits face increasing pressure to prove that their work is making a real difference. Donors want tangible results that show the value of nonprofit initiatives. To meet these expectations, nonprofits use various tools to measure and showcase their impact. Here are six standard methods nonprofits use to evaluate their work and demonstrate their achievements.

Compare outcomes to goals
Nonprofits can measure their impact by comparing the results they achieve to the goals they set. By looking at the data on what they’ve accomplished and how it aligns with their intentions, nonprofits can see where they’re doing well and where they can improve. It’s like checking if they’re hitting the targets they aimed for.
Keep an eye on essential numbers
Nonprofits track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor their progress toward their goals. These numbers show how well their programs, projects, or campaigns are doing. They can include things like how much money they’ve raised, how many people they’ve helped, or how satisfied their participants are. By monitoring these numbers, nonprofits can make informed decisions and improve what they’re doing.
Get an outside perspective
Nonprofits can ask independent experts to evaluate the impact of their work. These evaluations provide an unbiased assessment of how effective the organization is and offer suggestions for improvement. By getting an outside perspective, nonprofits can show they’re serious about transparency and accountability.
Make a clear plan
Nonprofits create program logic models to map out how their programs work. These models show the inputs (like resources and staff), the activities (what they do), the outputs (what they produce), and the outcomes (the changes they want to see). By having a clear plan, nonprofits can track their progress and measure the impact of what they’re doing.
Ask the people they help
Nonprofits directly ask the people they serve how they’re doing. They use surveys to gather feedback and determine whether their programs work well. Surveys can ask questions like how satisfied the participants are or if their lives have improved because of the program. By listening to the people they help, nonprofits can learn what they’re doing right and what they can do better.
Test things out
Nonprofits sometimes run experiments called randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to see if their programs are making a difference. They randomly assign some people or communities to receive the program (the treatment group) and others not to accept it (the control group). By comparing the outcomes between the two groups, nonprofits can see if their program is truly causing the changes they want. It’s like trying out something new to see if it works.

By using these tools, nonprofits can measure their impact, improve their actions, and gain the trust of those who support them. Nonprofits need to keep using these methods over time and always be willing to learn and adapt. By showing that they’re making a real impact, nonprofits can make a positive difference in society and ensure their long-term success.
At Elevate, we understand the challenges that nonprofits face when measuring impact. That’s why we offer expert guidance to help nonprofits set up outcomes measurement projects that effectively capture their impact and demonstrate the value of their work. Our experienced team works closely with nonprofits to define impact, develop measurable indicators, use evidence-based approaches, monitor progress, and communicate impact effectively. By partnering with Elevate, nonprofit leaders can ensure that their efforts are making a positive difference and build trust with their stakeholders.
Contact us today to learn how we can help your nonprofit measure its impact and achieve its mission.