ServicesCollective Impact Evaluation

Collective impact is a collaborative framework for partners who want to work together in a structured way to achieve social change. We have a deep-rooted interest in supporting cross-sector, multi-partner collective impact efforts.

A local Family Connection and collective impact partner provides early learning programming. Photo courtesy of Georgia Family Connection Partnership.

Over the years, we have worked with many large and complex collaboratives serving urban, suburban, and rural communities. We have developed an integrated theory of change approach to helping them document processes and measure change. We support partnerships to engage in the ongoing learning and cross-agency communication and coordination that collective impact requires.

The following pillars inform our overall approach to collective impact consulting:

  • Many Roles. As a collective impact evaluation partner, we serve in various roles. These may include providing guidance and direction, facilitating groups, conducting research, synthesizing data, supporting continuous learning, and building consensus. The development of a collective impact initiative is complicated. Our work develops clarity, sharpens focus, assesses progress, and organizes resources for collaborative partners.
  • Flexibility. Our role as evaluation thought partner evolves and changes over time. Our flexibility reflects the stage of collective impact and collaborative development. We adapt quickly, modifying evaluation methods and plans, and adjusting to changes in evaluation priorities.
  • Importance of Actionable Data. A quality collective impact approach depends on the availability of real-time, high-quality data. We support collective impact collaboratives in all facets of data collection, analysis, and synthesis. This work helps stimulate reflection and informs strategic decision making among partners.

Let Metis Associates Help with Your Next Collective Impact Evaluation Project.

For additional information about Metis’s collective impact evaluation services, please contact Stan Schneider.

Collective Impact Evaluation Case Studies

Supporting Community Collaboration in Georgia

With the largest network of community collaboratives nationwide, Georgia is leading the work to collectively improve conditions for children youth, families, and neighborhoods. Since 1995, we have helped local collaboratives and state-level partners assess change in Georgia’s benchmarks.

Serving America’s Veterans through Collective Impact

Metis helped the first-ever collective impact effort for supporting military-connected individuals to assess its pilot program in New York City. Findings supported the expansion of the initiative nationwide.

What Our Clients Say

My experience with Metis Associates has been nothing but positive, which is why I have continued to seek their expertise, knowledge, and assistance in my work to support children and families in Georgia for over 25 years.

Gaye Smith, Executive Director, Georgia Family Connection Partnership

More Client Testimonials