Research Methodology
SIR follows a five step research methodology when developing social issue, state, and organization reports and guides to giving.
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1. Select a Social Issue A social issue, such as college access and success, is selected based on the following factors:
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2. Determine the Best Approach The approach that has been proven to successfully address a social issue is determined through a comprehensive literature review and in-depth consultations with at least ten issue experts across the academic, government, funder, and practitioner fields on a national and state level. |
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3. Define the Landscape The landscape of organizations working on the social issue is defined through an extensive search of public databases. This landscape is filtered to include only those organizations that serve an at-risk population and incorporate core components identified in the best approach. |
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4. Collect Data Data is collected about each organization in the landscape from the following sources:
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Social Innovation Forum
Save the date for the 2012 Social Innovator Showcase—May 3!
The ninth annual Social Innovator Showcase, modeled after venture capital forums, will highlight our six 2012 Social Innovators for potential investors, as well as spark conversations on the best approaches to developing and spreading innovation.
Idea Lab
Why a market for social innovation is needed now more than ever
In this Stanford Social Innovation Review article, Andrew Wolk discusses how to create and invest in a social impact market.
