The SROI Network

If you have read any of the case studies, you will have noticed a range of approaches to reporting. whilst they all describe how social value was calculated there are different approaches to the number of case studies and the amount of context and some are quite long. Should we standardise reporting format? As a starting point and in relation to the information on case studies and other narrative, I like the YWCA approach (which should be read with the YWCA workbook).

Interesting thought around standardisation of reporting. I see more and more organisations attracted to the "ratio" element of SROI and using this as a means of comparison between projects they have funded or delivered. Beyond the number there is little consistency in reporting and therefore its hard to compare the detailed infomation behind the number - the danger is therefore that it is just the ratio element that gets any focus from cursory readers and quoted in defence of projects. My initial feeling (back to SROI after a 4 year break) that it would be useful - certainly for organisations I'm working with.

I've recently picked up a report and tool commissioned by dept for Communities and Local Government that has created a 'handypersons financial benefits toolkit' (March 2010) - essentially its a ready-made SROI calculator for a local handypersons service, and details all the indicators, evidences, methodologies, etc for the purpose of building a case for investment in them by public bodies...

wonder how these compare with the Networks' emerging norms of what such financial proxies should be and how they are best calculated?