Data collection can sound daunting and time consuming, but it doesn’t need to be! Here are our 5 Top Tips on how to keep your data collection simple and effective.

1. Start with the basics – It might sound like a cliché but starting with the basics really matters in impact reporting. Make sure you collect basic output numbers (e.g. how many people you help). Funders will need this information as a minimum and having a great set of base data will give you a solid platform to develop compelling impact reporting.
2. Develop a theory of change – A theory of change explains how your services create the change that leads to outcomes and impact. This can be complicated, but you can start with a basic model and re-visit it later. The most important thing is that you understand what changes you are trying to achieve and how you know that your work is having the impact you want it to have.
3. Don’t try to measure everything – It can be tempting to try to collect and measure everything – because your work will lead to lots of positive changes. However, don’t get caught in the trap of trying to measure too much. Use your theory of change to focus your attention on what you really need to measure and create a realistic plan to collect data. Be clear with funders what you will be monitoring during any funded programme.
4. Use data to improve your service – It can be tempting to use data simply to ‘prove’ impact to report back to funders. Instead, collect data that will help you to make changes so that you are helping your beneficiaries in the best way possible. After all, that’s why you exist! Collect during the programme (not just at the end) and think about what information would help you to make changes – it could be as simple as asking people what could be improved about the programme.
5. Tell people’s stories – numbers are important, but they aren’t everything! Bring your work to life by listening to and sharing people’s stories. Utilising stories alongside figures and stats can really help to show just how important your work is for the people you are helping.

We hope that you found these tips helpful and that they set you nicely on your impact journey.

If you have any questions about data collection or impact reporting, feel free to get in touch anytime at kasia@bcausam.co.uk.

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