Lean Social Metrics

Lean Social Metrics is a freely accessible paper published by the Nominet Trust, the UK's leading social tech funder'. The paper explores the meaningful metrics that social tech ventures can use to evaluate the social impact of their work.'

What is it?
Lean Social Metrics is a freely accessible paper published by the Nominet Trust, the UK's leading social tech funder'. The paper explores the meaningful metrics that social tech ventures can use to evaluate the social impact of their work.'

The paper names and contextualizes a number of appropriate evaluation tools and approaches, mapping or sequencing these against the development stages of a social tech venture. The paper focuses on the earlier (start-up) phases of development, where a lean metrics' approach would be most applicable.

Users will have to refer to other sources for details on the specifics of implementing the various methods cited in this paper though these should be easily accessible as the paper recommends a set of widely-used approaches including: Theory of Change; interviews; discussion groups and frameworks to test key outcomes. The paper also includes a small number of case studies, outlining Nominet Trust grantees' relevant experiences with lean metrics

Is it right for me?
According to its authors, the metrics outlined in this paper are meant to support investors in assessing the potential of social tech ventures and help more social tech startups to progress towards achieving significant and sustainable social improvements.'

This approach marks a departure from methods developed for traditional and, especially larger-scale social initiatives. It instead proposes lean social metrics' or temporary leading indicators, based on a coherent Theory of Change, which give signs of potential future social value' rather than social value created'.

They are therefore particularly useful for emerging youth projects that use social technologies at the core of their work - and are in need of methods appropriate to their specific fund-raising and other needs.

Consequently, they are also of use to commissioners and funders seeking appropriate approaches to assessing the potential impact of innovative, technology-driven youth initiatives.

How do I access it?
​You can read the paper here.