What We Do

We excel in situations where our clients are engaged in innovative social change, are committed to learning, and view measurement as a method to propel their thinking and strategies around future practices.

Systems Evaluation

ORS Impact specializes in and has built a national reputation for evaluations of complex and dynamic systems.

Many of ORS’s projects relate to building out systems or analyzing alignment of sectors toward social change goals in public health, education, workforce and economic development, comprehensive community change, and advocacy and policy.

We are versatile and adept at applying our expertise in complex system-change efforts that address long-term societal problems. We understand the importance of phases and sequences, as well as being clear on the particular strategies at play and the outcomes most likely to be successful.

ORS Impact’s Impact, Influence, Leverage, and Learning (I2L2) Outcomes Framework clearly articulates different dimensions of system change work:

impact refers to changes in people or populations;
influence refers to changes within organizations,
networks, partnerships, policies, practices, or norms;
leverage refers to the commitment of resources;
learning is about field building and advancing knowledge.

Contact us to learn more about our approach.

Publications

Related Resources & Publications

Feature Report

I2L2: Impact, Influence, Leverage, and Learning (updated)

Successfully addressing vital social issues—like the movement for racial justice and addressing climate crises—requires large-scale initiatives that address equity, complexity, and systems. By understanding how systems changes are occurring, social change actors can see the full spectrum of change that is possible, and gain vital knowledge for strategic development, and ultimately drive more powerful results.

Publications

Related Resources & Publications

Working Paper

Narrative Change Components: Stories, Narratives, Mindsets, Paradigms, and Culture as Part of Cultural and Systems Change

While the strategic use of narrative change has become increasingly widespread, the underlying mechanisms by which narrative change is important for social change remain unclear. Why narrative change, and for what ultimate purpose? How does narrative change relate to systems change? This working paper delves into the building blocks of narrative change.