What Common Approach is and is not

…standardized indicators.

…standardized tools and methods.

…a software.

…a taxonomy.

…investor or funder driven.

…a way for networks, investors, and funders to make sense of diverse indicators (Common Framework)

…a way to know if a tool or method meets the minimum criteria of impact measurement practice (Common Foundations)

…a way to exchange data between softwares (schema, ontology using linked data.) (Common Impact Data Standard)

…a means of incorporating taxonomies into software to simplify form filling (Common Form)

…community-driven. Common Approach is designed to be low-burden on SPOs, to give them the flexibility they need to give voice to those they serve and to get good value out of their measurement efforts

• Choose or invent their own indicators (they may choose standardized ones.)
• Choose or invent their own tool and/or method, so long as it meets the Common Foundations minimum standard.
• Use any software aligned with the Common Impact Data Standard.

• Standardized indicators such as IRIS+, GRI, and SASB can be used with Common Approach standards.
• Existing tools and methods, such as SROI, results-based management, and impact-weighted accounts, can be used with Common Approach standards.
• Impact measurement softwares create interoperability by bringing investors and SPOs onto the same platform. Common Approach’s Common Impact Data Standard can be used by any software to create interoperability between it and any other aligned software.