Social impact describes the structural, social and environmental consequences of products, projects and business models. The concept helps organisations plan, measure and embed positive effects into governance. It includes stakeholder engagement, indicators and iterative improvement while balancing trade-offs between objectives.
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Social impact means the intended and unintended social consequences of a product, project, or organisation.
The term grew from impact-oriented development work and socially responsible management. ISO 26000 frames social responsibility through subjects such as human rights, labour practices, the environment, and fair operating practices.
Start with affected stakeholders and a theory of change: what change should occur, through what mechanism, and for whom? Choose verifiable indicators, capture adverse effects, and adapt decisions to evidence. An activity or output is not itself an impact.
An observable change for people, communities, or the environment associated with an intervention.
People and groups affected by a decision or able to influence it.
Quantitative or qualitative signals used to assess progress and adverse effects.
Social impact makes consequences beyond revenue and delivery visible. It supports responsible product decisions, prioritisation, and accountability, while requiring transparent assumptions and participation by affected groups.
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