The monumental role data plays in transforming the social sector, with Adam Luecking, CEO and co-founder of Clear Impact. This discussion showcases how the right tools and mindset can empower nonprofits to create measurable, lasting impact, making it an invaluable listen for organizations striving to unlock their full potential through data.
Adam begins by outlining two key types of data that nonprofits need to focus on: population-level data, which relates to broader societal conditions, and program accountability data, which evaluates how well individual programs perform. He notes, “There’s really two types of data out there—population-level data, which is much bigger than any one program, and program-level data, which is focused on how much and how well you do something, but most importantly, whether anyone is better off from your services.”
He shares, with co-hosts Wendy Adams and Julia Patrick, that the shift toward data-driven work can create anxiety within organizations, especially smaller nonprofits that lack experience in performance reporting. Continuing, he advocates for a phased approach, encouraging organizations to start small and build their capacity over time. “Pick three to five measures and focus on whether people are better off. Start small, build your performance and data muscles, and improve as you go,” he says.
This look into working with data also touches on the importance of aligning data reporting with funder expectations. Adam points to the need for nonprofits to shift their mindset from seeing data collection as a burden to understanding it as a core part of their mission. His mantra, “Bring precision to your passion,” encapsulates the idea that combining clear data with passion-driven work leads to greater social outcomes.
You’ll change the way you look at your nonprofit’s data! Clear Impact has pivoted from providing professional services to offering specialized software that enables nonprofits, governments, and philanthropic organizations to measure and enhance their social impact. Check them out. . .ClearImpact.com