Oxford Impact Measurement Programme

Learn how to measure and optimise your social and environmental impact

The choices we make on why, what, and how to measure impact tells us a story of what we choose to value.

There are increasing demands across many sectors and organisations to measure social and environmental impact. The ways in which impact measurement is designed, implemented, and used has implications for how decisions are made for organisations and society. As such, impact measurement is not just a technical exercise, but a broader strategic, management, and leadership imperative.

On this programme, you will learn about the core concepts and emerging issues in impact measurement, how 'impact' is framed by and for different stakeholders and uses, and examples of measurement approaches and tools, and how they could be adapted for your work. You will also interact with global leaders and course participants to critically examine how to make choices and decisions for your organisation and context.

This programme draws on the School’s extensive research and teaching in impact measurement, impact investing, accounting, finance, and strategy. You will engage with experienced faculty and tutors on how impact measurement is applied to both established and emerging areas - such as impact investment, climate change, supply chains, and philanthropy. And you will exchange ideas and experiences with, and build a network from, a diverse group of programme participants from across the globe.

The programme experience includes:

• Live lectures with faculty and guest speakers
• Frequent small group discussion sessions
• Structured networking with participants and alumni
• Canvas platform with videos and pre-reading materials
• Programme workbook with templates
• Post-Programme access to learning materials
• Live interaction with Directors, faculty and guest speakers
• Post-Programme Oxford Saïd Alumni benefits

Benefits

To you

• Understand the core concepts, trends, and approaches to measuring impact
• Learn how to critically assess and select measurement approaches and tools
• Be equipped to make informed choices on designing and improving your approach

To your business

• Develop the core components of an impact measurement strategy
• Understand how impact measurement varies across sectors and perspectives
• Integrate leading impact practices from global experts and applied research

Programme outline

Week one: Framing

We begin by introducing key concepts and models, review global and sectoral trends in this dynamic and emergent field, and situate the questions and debates to be explored over the programme.

Week two: Perspectives

We explore examples of how impact measurement is being designed and implemented in different sectors and contexts, using examples from impact investing, sustainability, and philanthropy.

Week three: Approaches

We examine a range of established and emerging approaches to impact measurement - including standards, frameworks, and tools - in a 'hands on' manner to critically assess how they are being used and adapted.

Week four: Decisions

We consider the ways in which impact measurement influences decision making, and draw on examples from different sectors - from social impact bonds to tech ventures - to describe the choices and trade-offs on how impact evidence is used (or misused).

Week five: Prospects

We look ahead to the changing landscape of impact measurement trends and practices, and the possibilities and risks that may emerge when exploring new technologies stakeholders, and perspectives.