How Do You Know If Your Program Is Actually Working?

I hear nonprofits tell me all the time, “I think our program is working. But I just don’t know how to show it!”

They weren’t alone. Many nonprofit and public-sector organizations are working incredibly hard, delivering services every day, and meeting urgent needs in their communities. And yet, when it comes time to answer a simple question of whether the organization has evidence that their program is working or not, the room gets quiet.

“We know it works. But I can’t give you any data to support that.”

This uncertainty isn’t a failure. But it is a sign it’s time for you organization to level up.