Measuring What Matters

Overview

  • The 2020 Measuring What Matters (MWM) series offers a unique opportunity for up to 10 organizations that are ready to move from learning data theory to implementing solutions. This is your chance to get the support you need to tackle the critically important work of using data to amplify your impact. 

    Selected organizations will be part of an innovative, six-month program designed to help you make progress on a specific data or evaluation-related goal. The curriculum integrates the following elements: 

    • Interactive full group sessions

    • Peer learning with a cohort group

    • Customized coaching from local data and evaluation experts

    Depending on your unique goal, your team could come away with useful new tools, such as an informative programmatic theory of change, data collection plan, performance management process map, customized program dashboard, or other deliverables of your choice. 

    At the end of MWM, participants will chart tangible action steps to improve programs strategically and enhance a learning culture at their organizations. Those who complete the series will also receive a stipend of $1,500 to continue working toward data and evaluation-related goals!

“Measuring What Matters is an extraordinary way for any program to organize their day-to-day operations based on data-driven decisions. The workshops and webinars were spot-on, providing our team new information and best practices to identify our successes and opportunities.”

— 2019 Program Participant

Key Components

  1. Two Half-Day Full Group Classes: Content delivery on data and evaluation topics, peer learning with the full group, and dedicated team time.

    • May 19, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

    • September 22, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

  2. Cohort Workshops: Two two-hour sessions with your smaller cohort of peers and assigned coach to provide  consulting on project deliverables.

    • June, TBD based on schedule

    • August, TBD based on schedule 

  3. Coaching Calls: Three 45-minute check-ins by phone with your coach who will help troubleshoot, advise, and ensure that your team stays on track.

    • May, TBD based on schedule 

    • July, TBD based on schedule

    • October/November, TBD based on schedule

  4. Final Presentation: All MWM teams will come together to conclude the series with a final presentation. Each team will present their project, lessons learned, and any final deliverables. 

    • October 7, 9 – 11:30 am 

  5. $1,500 stipend awarded to each team that actively participates and completes the series for investment in continued data and evaluation capacity building efforts!

“Measuring What Matters happened for us at a pivotal moment in our organization's growth. The program was what we needed in order to become a more data-driven organization. Thanks to MWM, we are better able to measure our positive impact in the rural counties where we serve.”

— 2019 Program Participant

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Who can apply for Measuring What Matters? 
Central Texas nonprofits seeking to improve their evaluation practice and use of data to drive impact. Teams should be prepared to dedicate time and effort to refine and tackle their goals in a collaborative manner. Priority selection will be given to participants from Central Texas grantee organizations of Good Measure partners, including: 

  • Anderson Charitable Foundation

  • Andy Roddick Foundation 

  • Applied Materials Foundation 

  • Bill Wood Foundation

  • Genevieve and Ward Orsinger Foundation 

  • Georgetown Health Foundation

  • Hogg Foundation for Mental Health 

  • Michael & Susan Dell Foundation 

  • St. David’s Foundation 

  • United Way for Greater Austin 

  • Webber Family Foundation 

What is the Cost? 
Measuring What Matters is provided at no cost to participants. All costs of this series are underwritten by Good Measure, with programming provided by Mission Capital.

What are examples of the types of goals that previous MWM teams have selected? 
Goal statements have ranged from developing a logic model to implementing data collection alignment organization-wide. Goals are unique to the organization, and typically evolve over the course of the series. To learn more about the types of goals nonprofits have selected in the past, click here.

Who should be on my team? 
Team members in the past vary from internal evaluators, development, or program level staff. We advise choosing your team based on your goal for the series.

Can we co-apply with another nonprofit? 
Absolutely! This might be a great fit if you provide services in collaboration with another nonprofit and have a shared data and evaluation project you’d like to tackle together. The application will provide an option to apply together as a team and work on a shared goal.

How Can I Learn More?
Mission Capital staff are available to answer questions and help you determine if the series is a good fit for your organization. Please contact series coordinator Stephanie Shaw at stephanies@missioncapital.org or (512) 477-5955 ext. 280.