Project · Evaluation & Impact Reporting
Outcomes measurement framework for nonprofits
Part of our evaluation & impact reporting support. Work on it with a coach, practitioner or cohort — and keep the result.
No credit card required · you own & control your data
You’ll walk away with
Short list of outcomes and indicators
Data collection plan
Simple dashboard
- Typical length
- 6–10 weeks to design, then a first data cycle over a few months
- Who’s involved
- Program director and the frontline staff who collect data; about 2–3 hours a week during design
Overview
What is an outcomes measurement framework project?
An outcomes measurement framework sets out which few results you will track, how you will collect the data and how you will use it. When it’s done, staff stop collecting numbers nobody reads, and you can answer “is it working?” with evidence. Funder reports then pull from the same short list.
Steps
How does an outcomes measurement framework project usually run?
01
Pick outcomes
Start from your theory of change and choose the outcomes that matter most.
02
Define indicators
For each outcome, decide exactly what you’ll count or ask, and how often.
03
Plan collection
Fit data collection into work staff already do, such as intake or exit forms.
04
Build a simple dashboard
Show results in one place and review them at a regular staff meeting.
Signs you need this
When does a nonprofit need an outcomes measurement framework project?
The most common sign a nonprofit needs an outcomes measurement framework project is “You collect data nobody uses.” — here are the others to look for.
- You collect data nobody uses.
- You can’t answer “is it working?”
- Funders ask for outcomes, not outputs.
Delivery
How does Resilia deliver an outcomes measurement framework project?
Practitioner: a practitioner designs the framework with your staff, and the data lives in your living record.
Practitioner time is scoped with you — or free to you if your funder sponsors it.
Example
What does a finished outcomes measurement framework look like?
For example, a job-readiness program might settle on six indicators, including job placement at 90 days and starting wage. Data would come from a short follow-up call logged in its record, and staff would review a one-page dashboard each month.
Pitfalls
What are common mistakes to avoid?
- Tracking 30 indicators because each funder asked for something different.
- Adding forms that frontline staff have no time to complete.
- Collecting data but never discussing it as a team.
Related
What is an outcomes measurement framework project often paired with?
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How many indicators should we track?
As few as you can act on — often five to ten.
How long does an outcomes measurement framework project take?
Typically 6–10 weeks to design, then a first data cycle over a few months. Program director and the frontline staff who collect data; about 2–3 hours a week during design.
How much does an outcomes measurement framework project cost?
Practitioner time is scoped with you — or free to you if your funder sponsors it.
Who does the work on an outcomes measurement framework project?
A practitioner designs the framework with staff; the data lives in your record.
Can we start an outcomes measurement framework project for free?
Yes. Start self-service for free in your workspace, then add a coach, practitioner or cohort when you’re ready — or ask your funder to sponsor it.
Can our funder pay for this?
Often, yes. Here’s how to ask.
Start this project.
I run a nonprofit
Start in your free workspace — no funder needed.
Start this projectNo credit card required · you own & control your data
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